The new chief executive of Reading Borough Council has been hired and will earn £170,000 per year for the role.

Councillors have selected Jackie Yates to be the new chief executive, which will see her conduct the overall management of staff at the council and advise the administration and councillors on how it can best fulfil its functions.

She will be paid £170,000 per year, in a salary that has been published by the council on its senior officers webpage.

Jackie has succeeded Peter Sloman, who retired from the role in August to pursue a career as a public sector mentor in a non-executive role, according to Jessica Hill of the Local Government Chronicle.

Since Mr Sloman retired, Jackie has been undertaking the role as the interim chief executive.

Jackie was confirmed as the new chief executive unanimously at a full council meeting of Reading Borough Council on Wednesday, October 18.

Councillor Jason Brock (Labour, Southcote), the leader of the council, said: “Peter Sloman is of course a tough act to follow.

“[Jackie] has vast experience, is extremely talented, has a track record of delivery, a very good sense of humour and one of those laughs that you can’t fail to hear around the building which is always an endearing characteristic if you ask me.

“I’m sure that Jackie will be a fantastic chief executive for this council as we move forward, and I greatly look forward to working with her in her new role.”

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The decision to select her was made by a cross party panel of councillors.

Cllr Clarence Mitchell, leader of the Conservative group and Emmer Green representative said:  “I think she is an excellent and will be a credit to the council and the town.”

Celebrating the news, Jackie Yates said: “It is a huge privilege to take on the role of Chief Executive.

“Reading is a thriving and vibrant town with many opportunities, but also some significant challenges that will only be exacerbated by the current cost of living crisis.

“I am excited and looking forward to working with Councillors, partners, our fantastically talented staff and communities to ensure all our residents have the opportunity to share in Reading’s success and live their best lives.”

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Jackie joined Reading Borough Council in 2018 as Executive Director of Resources and became Deputy Chief Executive in 2021, having previously served on Oxford City Council, Milton Keynes Council, and the county councils of Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

She will be the fifth female chief executive to serve the council, following in the footsteps of Sylvie Pierce (1992-1995), Di Bligh (1995-1997), Joye Markham (1997-2002), and Trish Haines (2002-2008).

As the council’s most senior officer, Jackie is being paid the most out of any other official.

The second highest paid official is Seona Douglas, the executive director of social care and health, who earns a salary of between £115,344 and £140,266 per year.