THURROCK Council's outgoing managing director commissioner Dr Dave Smith, whose replacement in Thurrock was announced earlier this week, has landed a similar highly-paid post in another troubled authority.

And he will continue to work under the stewardship of Gavin Jones, who is a fellow commissioner at Thurrock.

The appointment of Dr Smith, who has an annual salary in excess of £250,000, has been approved by government ministers.

Like Thurrock, Slough is being run under government intervention after running up debts of more than £750 million.

Independent commissioners were parachuted into Slough in October 2021, to rectify 'serious failings' over the handling of the council's finances. As Thurrock, with its debt of £1 billion a year later, Slough had effectively declared bankruptcy.

A Slough Borough Council statement says the authority: "Welcomes the appointment as we continue to improve the way we work, deliver services and embark on an ambitious and cross cutting programme of transformation.

"Dr Smith is an experienced local government leader whose career has focused on public-sector transformation, economic development and devolution.

"Dr Smith will work with members, staff, residents, partners and other Commissioners to continue improving services for local people."

Gavin Jones, Lead Commissioner for Slough Borough Council, said: "I am delighted that the Minister is minded to appoint Dr. Dave Smith as the next MDC for Slough.

"I have worked with Dave at Thurrock for the last three years and have seen the positive impact of his leadership on the improvements at Thurrock. Dave will be able to build on the fantastic work that Will Tuckley has done in preparing the Council for the next stage of its improvement journey."

Cllr Wal Chahal, Leader, Slough Borough Council, said: "We wanted the best possible appointment for Slough. After meeting Dave and learning more about his experience, I am confident he is the right person to support Slough at this time. I look forward to working closely with Dave.

"This appointment builds on the significant progress made so far and on behalf of the council, I thank Will for his hard work and commitment to Slough and wish him all the best for the future.

"Together with councillors, staff, residents and partners, we will remain focused on better outcomes for the community, while maintaining the momentum of improvement."

Dr Dave Smith said: "It is a privilege to be asked to support Slough Borough Council on its improvement journey and I am excited to be taking up the role of Managing Director Commissioner there.

"I am very grateful to Thurrock Council Officers and Members for the opportunity to work with them to help them deliver significant improvements and I wish the council every success going forward.

"I am looking forward to helping Slough Council's Members and Officers realise more of their ambitions to improve the council and deliver for the people of the borough. "

Will Tuckley, who is the outgoing Managing Director Commissioner and Chief Executive of Slough Borough Council, said: "It has been a privilege to serve the people of Slough. While there is more to do, considerable progress has been made, and I am proud of what has been achieved together. The organisation is stronger, with a plan in place for continued improvement and transformation.

"I would like to thank everyone I have worked with for their commitment and support. I wish Dave, the council and all who serve Slough every success."