Jo Farrar to Move on From Council

Jo Farrar – Chief Executive of Bath & North East Somerset Council – is set to move to pastures new.

After a 4 years run as Chief Executive of Bath & North East Somerset Council, the Council has announced, that Dr Jo Farrar has decided to accept a senior post as Director General, Local Government and Public Services in the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).

The new post gives Jo the opportunity to bring her considerable experience of Local Government in Bridgend and in Bath & North East Somerset to policy making in Whitehall.

Councillor Tim Warren (Conservative, Mendip), Leader of the Council, said, “I am sure I speak for all of members of the Council, officers and partners when I say that we are sad to see Jo leave the Council.  During the last four years Jo has worked with members and officers to build the foundations to meet the challenges facing this Council. However I recognise that this is a unique opportunity and it can only be a good thing to have such a committed advocate for local government, supporting national policy making.

Jo Farrar, Chief Executive, Bath & North East Somerset Council, said, “I have accepted the post in DCLG with mixed emotions.  I was not actively seeking another post but when this came up it was an opportunity that I felt I could not miss. I began my career in the Civil Service and I believe I will be able to offer valuable insights when I return at this critical time for local public services. I have greatly enjoyed my time in Bath and set down firm roots in the community. I still intend living within the area.” 

The Council has confirmed that Jo will remain in post until September to ensure a seamless transition to new management arrangements.