New council boss is a familiar face

Mrs Hunter, who previously held the post for 10 years, says her priority is to restore public confidence in the council.

The appointment completes a full change of leadership at the authority, following the election of Councillor Peter Mullineaux as new leader last week.

“I am delighted to be returning to Lancashire,” said Mrs Hunter, who was chief executive at South Ribble from 2000 to 2010, and has recently stepped down as chief executive for South Cambridgeshire District Council after six years.

She adeded: “My priority is to get to the bottom of any instances when the council hasn’t lived up to the high standards that residents rightly expect, and put things right.

“I have been brought in as interim chief executive to deliver, and I will deliver. I will restore the reputation of this council for providing first class services to its residents.”

Coun Mullineaux said: “I enjoyed working with Jean the first time around. A dynamic and inspirational leader, she was always incredibly popular with staff and councillors alike.

“Together we will make sure residents in South Ribble have a council they can be truly proud of.”

Mrs Hunter, originally from Sunderland and a grandmother of two, was appointed by a cross-party panel of political leaders and replaces outgoing chief executive Mike Nuttall, who will leave in October.

Her appointment is subject to full council approval at the next meeting on October 5.

The council will go through a thorough selection process to appoint a new permanent chief executive at a future date.