Bucks Council has confirmed the appointment of its new chief executive after the former post-holder left to run a housing body.

Today, Bucks Council has announced the appointment of Zina Etheridge as its new chief executive. In November it was announced that Rachael Shimmin was stepping down from the role after nine years holding the post.

Ms Shimmin left Bucks Council to become CEO for Anchor, a housing company which specialises in constructing homes for the elderly.

Bucks Council has received heavy criticism for the bracket of pay it dedicates to its chief executive. Latest official data showed that Ms Shimmin was earning £240,000 per year, significantly more than the Prime Minister.

Details of the salary the incoming chief executive will earn were not publicly advertised.

Ms Etheridge has held other leadership roles within local government as chief executive of NHS North East London. She was also chief executive of Haringey Council, Bucks Council found that she oversaw major regeneration and housing development projects, during her time. She also held the post while the authority dealt with the Covid pandemic.

Earlier in her career, Ms Etheridge held senior roles at both Haringey and Barnet councils. She also worked in the Cabinet Office.

Bucks Council leader, Councillor Steven Broadbent, said: “I’m delighted that the council has endorsed Zina’s appointment. She brings a wealth of experience from across local government and the NHS, alongside a strong track record of leading complex organisations through transformation. I’m very much looking forward to working with her as we continue to deliver for our residents.”

Bucks Council confirmed Ms Etheridge will start in her new role in April of this year. She said: “I am really excited to be appointed as chief executive for Buckinghamshire Council. It is a brilliant place, in which I spend a lot of my free time, and I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with everyone to build on everything that has been achieved so far. My aim is to ensure the place, its people and communities continue to thrive and succeed. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting staff, partners and members during the recruitment process, and I look forward to working with everyone in the future.”