A new corporate director of resources has been appointed at Durham County Council.
Paul Darby, who has held the interim role since December, has been appointed on a permanent basis following a recruitment process.
Paul started his career at Sedgefield Borough Council in 1987, before moving to Durham City Council in 2007 to become director of finance.
Born and raised in County Durham, Paul has spent his entire career working in the county and has a wide range of experience in local government.
When the new unitary council was created in 2009, he was appointed to his current role, leading the changes required to bring together the financial framework for the new authority.
More recently, he has led on the council’s medium-term financial planning work and is the finance lead for the North East Combined Authority.
Paul is also responsible for a number of frontline services, including the council’s revenues and benefits services, registrars and Customer Access Points.
Paul said: “I am delighted to be taking on the role of Corporate Director of Resources on a permanent basis.
“I’m particularly looking forward to working with colleagues across the organisation in continuing to provide the best possible services to our residents.
“The past year, in particular, has taught me a lot about the challenges that are likely to lie ahead, but I also know that we are in a strong position and have much to look forward to.
“Being born and bred in County Durham, I know it’s a great place to live and work – but we also have so much to offer visitors and to businesses and those who choose to invest here.”
John Hewitt, Chief Executive of Durham County Council, said: “Having worked closely with Paul over a number of years now, I know how dedicated he is to his role and to the council.
“Robust financial management is key to our work across the organisation and having someone as committed and capable as Paul is essential. He will be a fantastic permanent addition to our management team.
“I’m sure he will continue to do an excellent job going forward.”
Cllr Amanda Hopgood, leader of Durham County Council, said: “I would like to offer my congratulations to Paul on his appointment.
“He has been a real asset to the council since joining in 2009 and has done an exceptional job during the past year as interim Corporate Director of Resources, guiding the council’s finances through what has been a busy and challenging period.
“He has proven to be a valuable addition to the corporate management team and I very much look forward to continuing to work with him.”