A Felixstowe man is on the verge of being officially ratified as East Suffolk Council's new Chief Executive.

Following a thorough and rigorous recruitment process, Chris Bally was the unanimous choice of the interview panel.

Born in Suffolk and resident in Felixstowe, Mr Bally has worked for almost 30 years in public services with 13 years of experience at a senior level with the county council and previously worked for Tendring District Council in Essex as well as the Audit Commission.

East Suffolk Council HQ in Melton

Mr Bally said: "This is a hugely exciting opportunity with one of the country's most progressive local councils and I feel very honoured to be taking up this position.

"I have seen up close how East Suffolk Council makes a real difference for its communities and I am determined to use my own experience and awareness of local priorities to help maintain the highest possible standards.

"This is an ambitious council with a huge agenda to deliver in the next decade and I can't wait to get started."

Once ratified by full council, the current director for corporate services and deputy chief executive at Suffolk County Council, will succeed Stephen Baker, who is retiring later this year after 17 years at the helm of East Suffolk and its predecessor councils.

Mr Bally lives in Felixstowe

Felixstowe councillor Steve Gallant, leader of East Suffolk Council, is delighted to have secured Mr Bally's services and believes he will bring a wealth of valuable experience and knowhow to the role.

He said: "Everyone involved in the recruitment process was hugely impressed by the calibre of candidates. However, Chris impressed us incredibly with his knowledge, determination, and enthusiasm for the role, and it is clear that he entirely understands the challenges and opportunities which East Suffolk faces.

"This is the largest district council in the country by population and we are on a journey to improve outcomes for all local people. Chris is highly experienced and respected in the county, and it is abundantly clear that he shares our ambitions for the area."

The ratification of the appointment to the role of Chief Executive will be heard at an extraordinary meeting of Full Council on 2 November.