Double act will end Ian’s era at Arun council

Nigel Lynn has joined as the new man at the helm, working alongside Ian Sumnall, who retires early next month after more than a quarter of a century with the authority, including 20 years as chief executive.

They are now working together in a hand-over period, after Nigel started work at Arun Civic Centre, Littlehampton, on Monday last week.

He was previously deputy chief executive of Spelthorne Borough Council in Surrey, serving there in departments covering planning and housing, asset management, customer services and communications.

Nigel said: “I intend to carry on the good work that Ian has been doing over the years in Arun. My aim for the future is to ensure that the district remains a great place to work, visit, and live.”

His appointment to the top job at Arun was unanimously approved by councillors in June, following an extensive recruitment process.

Ian said: “It has been a great honour to serve Arun during my time as chief executive. I have always been fortunate to work with dedicated, loyal and professional staff and we have responded to whatever was thrown at us, always trying to put the public first.

“October will be a busy but enjoyable month handing things over and I wish Nigel all the very best for the future.”