London borough councils Richmond and Wandsworth are set to appoint Andrew Travers as Interim Chief Executive, subject to approval by both councils this week. 

Andrew is experienced in the public and private sectors, currently as Interim Chief Executive of Southampton City Council and previously as Chief Executive of Lambeth Council and Barnet Council.

Richmond and Wandsworth councils have a unique arrangement with a single workforce led by one Chief Executive and Executive Board.

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: "Andrew brings a wealth of experience across the public service and in leading large-scale transformation, making him well placed to guide our shared workforce through this next phase. His appointment is excellent news for Richmond upon Thames, where we are already delivering significant work to improve services and outcomes for our residents.

"I know he will bring strong leadership and fresh insight to support the progress we are making, in which our staff play a crucial role."

Councillor Simon Hogg, Leader of Wandsworth Council, added: "Andrew is an experienced strategic leader, and I am pleased to welcome him to Wandsworth Council in what is an incredibly important job.

"It is an exciting time to be in Wandsworth and I look forward to working with him to deliver more of our residents' top priorities and services." 

Both leaders expressed their 'deep gratitude' to outgoing Interim Chief Executive Brian Reilly for his steady leadership during this period of transition, as well as for his long-standing service to housing and regeneration.

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Andrew Travers said: "I am really delighted to be joining Richmond and Wandsworth councils.

"I look forward to working with councillors, staff, and partners and to make the most of the way these two councils have come together to transform the way we deliver services in this fantastic part of London." 

The appointment has been recommended by the councils' cross-party Joint Staffing Committee, following a multi-stage recruitment process.

If confirmed by both full councils, Andrew will join Richmond and Wandsworth on 14 April.