CHESHIRE East Council’s new chief executive will start work at the authority on Monday, March 30.

The former director of transformation and partnerships at Durham County Council was formally voted into the role by full council last Thursday.

She said: “I am delighted to be joining CEC as chief executive.

“This is a really exciting time to be joining the council and I am looking forward to working with elected members, staff and partners to serve residents and communities.”

Frank Jordan, deputy chief executive, will take on the role of acting chief executive at CEC from Monday, March 9, following the departure of Kath O’Dwyer and until Ms O’Donnell takes the helm.

Ms O’Donnell, who will earn £151,000 a year, has more than 25 years’ experience in local government and was part of the team at Durham that was named council of the year in 2014.

Cllr Sam Corcoran, CEC’s Labour leader, said: “I would like to welcome Lorraine to CEC and look forward to welcoming her to our beautiful borough.

READ > Who is Lorraine O'Donnell? Find out more about the council's new chief exec

“Lorraine brings valuable experience, skills and new perspectives that will help us to transform the council and continue to deliver for our residents.

“We have an ambitious programme ahead to improve the environment, economy, health outcomes and opportunities for everyone in Cheshire East and I am sure that Lorraine will help us in delivering that.”