AN AUTHORITY in the North-East has announced its new head of finance.

John Hewitt has been announced as the new corporate director of resources at Durham County Council.

Mr Hewitt, who takes up his new position on October 18, will move from South Tyneside Council, where he is currently corporate director for business and resources.

He replaces Don McLure, who retired earlier this year.

Terry Collins, chief executive of Durham County Council, said: “I’m delighted to announce the appointment of John and we welcome the wealth of experience he will be able to bring to the role. We look forward to John playing a major part in the council’s future, helping us to deliver the best possible services for our residents.”

Mr Hewitt, from Spennymoor, started his career as an accountant at the former Sedgefield Borough Council.

Following this he rose through the ranks with financial roles at Durham Constabulary, and County Durham Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, where he became the deputy chief executive before moving to South Tyneside.

Mr Hewitt said: “I’m extremely proud to have been appointed as the corporate director for resources at Durham County Council. As a resident of the county – and where I’ve spent most of my life working - there’s a real sense of coming home.

“Although I’m aware of the challenges that await me, I’m also very excited by the opportunities it brings and am very much looking forward to getting started.”