Martin Nicholls named as Swansea Council’s new Chief Executive

Martin Nicholls, who has been Swansea Council’s interim chief executive since May this year, has been appointed its permanent Chief Executive.

The decision to appoint Mr Nicholls as successor to Phil Roberts, who retired in March this year, was taken at a full council meeting yesterday (21 November).

The decision has been welcomed by council leader, Rob Stewart, who said: “Martin’s appointment as chief executive is richly-deserved. He has been an excellent interim Chief Executive who has the respect of colleagues, councillors and others across local government in Wales.

“As interim chief executive and director of place before that, Martin has helped lead the authority through very challenging times, including the pandemic and the cost of living crisis.

“Martin has also been an important source of advice and guidance in helping the Council push ahead with its service improvement agenda, the successful delivery of the City Deal and Swansea Arena and the Council’s plans for the future of our city and its communities.”

New council Chef Executive, Martin Nicholls said: “It is a huge privilege to have been appointed to lead an incredibly hard-working group of people. I am honoured and humbled by the appointment and want to thank Full Council for their continuing confidence in me.

“Our services touch the lives of thousands of people in Swansea every day. As chief executive I am indebted to the commitment and dedication of our staff who go the extra mile providing services and support to our communities.

“I am looking forward to continue to build on our achievements so far as we face the challenging times ahead together.”

Prior to his interim role, Mr Nicholl’s role as Director of Place included responsibility for delivering progress on city centre regeneration and service areas including corporate building and property services, waste management, transportation and highways, culture and tourism, economic regeneration and planning, and housing and public protection.

(Lead image: Swansea Council)