A NEW chief executive has been appointed by New Forest District Council.

Kate Ryan is currently chief operations officer at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP). Before that she held a variety of director roles in local government in Dorset.

The leader of the district council is Cllr Edward Heron, who was elected earlier this year.

He said: “Kate brings with her experience from both the public and private sector, and has extensive experience of senior leadership in local government locally.

"We were very impressed with Kate at interview and I am pleased we have been able to appoint her to this key role."

Ms Ryan added: "I am delighted to be confirmed in the position as chief executive.

"Not only is it a beautiful place of high environmental quality familiar to so many of us, there is also a dynamic regeneration agenda including one of the largest brownfield sites on the south coast, and a drive to deliver inclusive growth including the Solent Freeport.

"The council has a strong track record and is well placed to play a key part in shaping the future of local government across Hampshire.

“I am looking forward to getting to know the people and communities of the New Forest once I take up my post.”

Ms Ryan will begin her new role in December.

Her appointment follows the departure of the previous chief executive, Bob Jackson, who has retired after a 44-year career in local government.

Mr Jackson has spent 13 years at NFDC, including six as chief executive.