Commissioners appointed to tackle failures at Sandwell

Commissioners have been appointed to implement positive and far-reaching changes at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council today (22 March 2022).

The move comes after an external review revealed a “deeply troubling picture of mismanagement and of ineffective scrutiny and accountability arrangements” at the council.

Two Commissioners with a proven record of leadership, transformation and strong governance have now been appointed to work collaboratively with the council to deliver the needed improvements.

The Commissioners will take over functions associated with the governance and scrutiny of strategic decision-making by the Council, including those relating to the appointment and dismissal of statutory officers.

Sandwell councillors have welcomed working with the appointed commissioners to support their journey of improvement.

Local Government Minister Kemi Badenoch MP said:

Given the clear evidence of the failings at Sandwell Council, I have decided that it is necessary for government to intervene.

I am confident that, working collaboratively with these commissioners, the council will build on their recent progress to make the necessary improvements and rebuild trust with the community they serve.

The Commissioners will be led by Kim Bromley-Derry CBE DL, the current interim Chief Executive Officer who has been leading the council since August 2021. Kim also worked as the Chief Executive of the London Borough of Newham for 8 years. He will be supported by Assistant Commissioner Jim Taylor, former Chief Executive of Salford City Council prior to his retirement in 2021.

Managing Director Commissioner Kim Bromley-Derry CBE DL said:

I am looking forward to continuing my work with Sandwell Council and building on the progress of recent months to better serve the people of Sandwell.