Bolton Council are seeking a new chief after it was announced that Tony Oakman is to retire later this year after a bout of ill health. Mr Oakman, chief executive the council, announced he will retire in October, stepping down from the post he has held since 2018.
He has worked in local government and the NHS for over 35 years and started out as a social worker in Nottinghamshire. He came to Bolton in 2018 as chief executive.
A Bolton Council spokesman said he had helped to change the strategic running of the council, achieve financial balance during some of the most financially challenging times and overseen a range of positive inspection and regulatory processes.
He also led the Bolton through the local resilience work during the COVID-19 pandemic whilst continuing to drive the ambition to modernise the council and deliver its ambitious plans in the context of a changing local political context.
Mr Oakman, said: “From the day I was appointed it has been an absolute honour and privilege to undertake this fantastic role.
“We have worked through some amazing and some very challenging times and l have enjoyed every moment. Unfortunately, I was not well in November last year, which led me to being hospitalised.
“Considering this serious health incident and after a lot of discussion with my wife and family, I reluctantly concluded it was the right time to retire. It has been an immense source of pride to serve the wonderful people of Bolton over the last five years.”
Council leader, Coun Martyn Cox said: “Tony is highly respected in Bolton as an innovative, determined and effective chief executive. As a chief he has acted with integrity and transparency, and has commanded respect from councillors, colleagues, and partners.
“I know everyone who has worked with him will wish him and his family all the best in his retirement.”
The council will now begin the process to recruit a new chief executive.
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