Ealing Councillors on Tuesday approved the appointment of Paul Najsarek as Ealing Council’s new Chief Executive.

He will replace Martin Smith, who has been in the role for the last six years.

Mr Najsarek was unanimously appointed, following a rigorous interview process, earlier this month and will start work at the council on 11 April 2016.

Paul has held a number of senior positions in central and local government with more than 20 years spent working in the London area. His past roles include; interim chief executive of Harrow Council, as well as holding top social care roles in Harrow, Hammersmith and Fulham and Hertfordshire. He was most recently the chief executive of Bolton Council.

During his career, he has led major projects including a £1billion regeneration programme in Harrow and a housing scheme that built 2,500 homes. He also led the implementation of the Greater Manchester devolution deal for Bolton Council. He has significant experience of partnership working at both a national and local level including for the West London Alliance of which Ealing is a member.

Paul has directly managed and improved front-line council services, despite reducing council budgets including delivering efficiency savings of £50million in Harrow. They include adult social care, housing, public health, leisure and libraries and community services. Paul was head of policy at the Audit Commission and was also part of the central government team that drafted ‘Every Child Matters’, a policy that has transformed social services’ practices across the country.

Councillor Julian Bell, leader of Ealing Council, said: "I am delighted that we have been able to attract someone of Paul’s calibre to Ealing. This is a very exciting time to be joining us as we strive to make the most of the borough’s fast-growing economy and regeneration opportunities. At the same time, we face the challenge of having to make significant financial savings."

"Paul has an excellent record of achievement in local government and I am confident he will be an excellent chief executive for Ealing. His drive and enthusiasm stood out in an impressive field of candidates for the role and I very much look forward to working with him."

Paul Najsarek said: "I know Ealing well and it is a great borough with a vibrant and diverse community. I am honoured and excited to have been appointed to this role. I am fortunate to be joining such a well-run council that has ambitious plans to capitalise on the area’s opportunities to improve the lives of local people."

"Although the public sector has challenges ahead, Martin has left a great legacy with the help of his team, councillors and council staff. I fully intend to build on this and strengthen our position in London and ensure that we keep delivering the best possible services for our residents."