13 June - Chief Executive to retire as restructure continues

Middlesbrough Council's Chief Executive is to retire later this month as part of an on-going restructure of senior management

Middlesbrough Council's Chief Executive is to retire later this month as part of an on-going restructure of senior management.

Ian Parker's departure comes as the authority continues the process of reducing its budget by up to £65 million over a five-year period.

Since his appointment in April, 2009, Mr Parker has worked closely with the town's elected Mayor Ray Mallon on a complete overhaul of the Council's structures and finances.

As part of that process the Council is changing the way it operates, becoming smaller and with fewer senior managers. Mr Parker's retirement at the end of June will further reduce the authority's corporate management team.

Mr Mallon paid tribute to Mr Parker's leadership during a period of major upheaval arising from the global economic downturn and cuts to the public sector imposed by the Coalition Government.

He said: "Ian Parker has made a significant contribution to the town, both as an outstanding Chief Executive over the last three years and in his previous role as the Council's Director of Environment.

"The Council currently faces a period of unprecedented financial cuts, and these will lead to significant changes over the next five years.

"Major savings will include reductions in senior management posts, and Ian's retirement will contribute to that process.

"Ian has been one of the leading lights in that transformation, and I do believe that if it had not been for his experience and determination, we would not be as resilient as we are today.

"Overall we are ahead of the game in dealing with the financial cuts and safeguarding the town's finances, and much of this is due to Ian Parker's contribution."

Mr Parker has worked in local government for more than 30 years and joined Middlesbrough Council in 2006 after a spell at Hartlepool.

The 55-year-old, who is married with two grown-up children, grew up in Middlesbrough and is a Boro season ticket holder.

Ian said: "My time working for Middlesbrough Council, particularly as Chief Executive, has been very challenging but also personally fulfilling.

"I will leave with many very fond memories but I am looking forward to living life at a different pace and intensity and having the time to enjoy my grandchildren - and a promotion season for the Boro!"