Jo Walker, former director, will be the new Chief Executive for Gloucestershire County Council replacing Pete Bungard in May.
Jo currently leads North Somerset Council, where she has been for six years and guided them through Covid. Pete Bungard retires in May after doing the job for 20 years; Jo replaces him.
She started at Gloucestershire, working up to director roles before moving to North Somerset where she became chief executive. She should start by May 19, if approved by a council vote on February 19.
Jo said it is an amazing privilege, as Gloucestershire is special to her. It’s been her home for 36 years, and she worked there for over 30 years. She cares deeply about the county.
She wants to help the council and will work with everyone there to improve healthcare and skills. They hope to attract jobs and investments and want great services for people. She also wants strong partnerships with public and private sectors to do their best for Gloucestershire.
Stephen Davies leads the County Council, and he said Jo has much experience, working well locally and nationally. He also noted that she knows the county well. Stephen said Jo stood out, and the committee chose her unanimously. He looks forward to working with her.
Jo will support elected officials, helping them achieve their goals. She will manage the council’s money well and ensure high-quality services. Equality will be central to decisions, and the council will meet all legal duties. She will also lead a compassionate culture that encourages innovation.
She helped get funding for North Somerset, improving the economy and infrastructure and creating housing for residents. Jo also works with healthcare groups, trying to reduce health differences. She advocates for South West councils too, speaking to officials for them.
Jo said leaving North Somerset was hard, as serving the people was a privilege. She helped key projects move forward, but Gloucestershire was a strong draw. She finds the new challenge exciting and will help with a smooth change.
Mike Bell leads North Somerset Council. He said Jo was very important and will be sadly missed there. Her leadership was inclusive, and she valued open talks. Her work will have a lasting impact, and they wish her well in her new role.
Pete Bungard retires in May, which may see the council become a unitary authority or split into two councils. One council would cover the East, and the other would cover the West. North Somerset will start looking for a new chief executive.