Barnet chief gets top GLA post

3:55pm Tuesday 4th November 2008

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Barnet Council chief executive Leo Boland has been chosen as the new chief executive and head of paid service of the Greater London Authority (GLA).

Appointed by Mayor of London Boris Johnson and the London Assembly, Mr Boland will oversee the permanent staff of the GLA and ensure it operates effectively.

Jeff Jacobs, former director of the GLA transition team, has been filling the role on a temporary basis since the departure of Anthony Mayer in the summer. He will hand over to Mr Boland in the new year.

Announcing the appointment, Mr Johnson said: "Leo brings considerable local government experience to this important role. He is known for running a tight ship with a healthy balance sheet and below inflation council tax rises for borough residents.

“His skills and approach are exactly what we need at City Hall to ensure that the GLA delivers value for money for all Londoners in the coming years.

“I’d also like to thank Jeff for leading the transition since my election, completing the successful reorganisation of my office and generally holding the fort during a challenging summer.”

Mr Boland has had more than 20 years’ management experience in local government in London. He began his work in the public service in 1974 as a graduate management trainee at the London Borough of Ealing and has been Barnet chief executive since 2001.

Council leader Mike Freer praised the officer for his work in Barnet.

He said: “I wish Leo the very best of luck in his new role. As chief executive of Barnet Council Leo has personally overseen a massive period of change and improvement, delivering a four-star rating from the Audit Commission over a considerably short space of time.

“His wealth of experience in local government will be invaluable to the GLA.”

London Assembly chairman Jennette Arnold said: “Leo Boland brings to the GLA an impressive track record of commitment to improving services for London.

“As City Hall undergoes a major reorganisation Leo will provide the leadership and vision to ensure both the Mayor and Assembly members can fulfil their respective roles and responsibilities.”