Search begins for new Calderdale chief as Merran McRae departs

Ms McRae has left to take the top job at Wakefield Council and will replace outgoing Wakefield Council chief executive Joanne Roney who is moving to Manchester City Council.

Leader of Calderdale Council, Councillor Tim Swift said: “I am very sorry to be losing Merran and I am very grateful for the contribution she has made to Calderdale during her time as our Chief Executive. On behalf of the Council I would like to wish her the very best for the future.

“We’re fortunate in having a very experienced senior management team in place who will continue to provide strong leadership at the Council.

“We are now putting in place the arrangements to recruit her successor.”

The appointment of Ms Mcrae is expected to be approved at a Wakefield Council meeting this week.

Ms McRae said: “I am delighted to have been recommended for the position of chief executive. Wakefield has a great reputation and big ambitions, and I’m looking forward to building on the success to date.

“I have greatly enjoyed my time in Calderdale and the talent and commitment of colleagues and will take many good memories into my new challenges.”

Prior to her time at Calderdale, Ms McRae had held senior roles at Kirklees Council.

Wakefield Council leader Peter Box said Ms McRae would bring “vision and leadership”.