A NEW chief executive has been appointed to lead Tendring District Council (TDC) through the “difficult financial times ahead”.

Ian Davidson will take over the role in early December and will replace John Hawkins – the longest-serving chief executive in Essex – who officially retires on January 3.

Mr Davidson’s position was confirmed at a meeting of the full council on Tuesday night and he was the unanimous choice of the council’s selection panel which carried out interviews last week.

Most recently he has been a senior manager at the Audit Commission but has been involved in a wide range of national and international initiatives.

Mr Davidson has worked on democracy and strengthening local government both at home and abroad.

He said he was now looking forward to the challenges ahead at Tendring.

“Poor health, low educational attainment and low economic activity are not acceptable for the people of Tendring or this council,” said Mr Davidson.

“It is now time for us all to work together to deliver excellent services in an organisation fit for purpose.”

Neil Stock, council leader, said Mr Davidson had the full backing of all the various political parties and that he is delighted with the appointment.

“There are difficult financial times ahead for everyone in local government but we feel we have the man to lead us through them.”

Mr Stock thanked Mr Hawkins for his dedication and commitment to TDC over 21 years, 14 of which have been as chief executive.

In August, deputy chief executive Roy Coulter, who served on the council for 27 years, and assistant chief executive Roger Stewart, who served for 36 years, both retired.

Mr Stock said all three executive leaders had been a “great asset” to the council. He added that their retirements would “allow the council to move forward and plan for the future”.