Gloucestershire Council Pays New Chief More Than Prime Minister

Gloucestershire hired Jo Walker as their chief executive. She will earn £189,000 each year. This is more than the Prime Minister’s pay. The council voted for her at a recent meeting.

Ms. Walker’s salary is £189,000 yearly for a full-time job. This is eight times the lowest council wage. It exceeds Keir Starmer’s £172,153 salary. Her contract follows local government rules.

The salary matches the advertised range. They compared it to similar councils. Stephen Davies spoke at a February 19 meeting. He said the decision was very important.

The council had a thorough hiring process. Twenty-two people first applied. Nine candidates were on a longer list, and five made the short list. Davies noted bipartisan agreement was important.

Many applied initially, and Davies thanked them for their effort. The final day involved three candidates. All three were fit for the role. Davies said this suggested the success of the process. He proposed they appoint Jo Walker. He wanted a vote to confirm her.

Walker began at Gloucestershire County Council as a trainee. She rose to director of highways, transport, and waste. Then, she became finance and corporate services director. Later, she became chief executive at North Somerset Council.

Walker feels privileged to get this job. She thinks it’s an exceptional role. She loves Gloucestershire after 36 years there. She worked 30 years at the council.

She is committed to the area and its people. She wants to support the council. Walker will work with members and staff. She wants to improve services for residents.

They aim to reduce health issues, boost skills, and attract jobs. Walker knows success needs partnerships. She will build strong relationships. This will include public and private sectors. They will work together for Gloucestershire.