NEWCASTLE City Council last night announced the appointment of Ian Stratford as its new chief executive.
Born and educated in the North-East, Mr Stratford is deputy chief executive with Thurrock Council, in Essex - a similar-sized authority to Newcastle, with a population of 300,000.
Mr Stratford said: "I am absolutely delighted to be appointed to this post.
"It will be a privilege to serve the city and help achieve its continuing growth and success."
Mr Stratford, 47, who is married to Debra and has two children, went to South Shields Grammar School. He served as deputy director of housing with Middlesbrough Council from 1983-1988.
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