MIDDLESBROUGH Council has named Ian Parker as its new Chief Executive.

Mr Parker, currently the Councils Executive Director of Environment, was appointed after a day of interviews at the Middlesbrough Teaching and Learning Centre.

The appointment follows the announcement in January that current Chief Executive Jan Richmond intended to step down after almost five years in the post.

Mr Parker has worked in local government for nearly 30 years and joined Middlesbrough Council in 2006 after a spell at Hartlepool.

The 52-year-old, who is married with two grown-up children, grew up in Middlesbrough and is a Middlesbrough season ticket holder.

He said: "I am particularly excited by the prospect of being Chief Executive in my home town.

"There have been many exciting things happening in recent years and I am sure there are more to come.

"I am certain that the town will continue to go from strength to strength and I am delighted to have the opportunity to play my part in that."

The appointment is subject to ratification by the full council when it meets tomorrow.