AN interim finance officer has been chosen to replace Peter Robinson, who resigned this month.

At Herefordshire Council's meeting today councillors approved the appointment of Mark Taylor as the temporary section 151 officer and director of resources.

Leader of the council, Tony Johnson, said as the council is about to launch into the next budget period and the deputy 151 officer is due to go on maternity leave, an interim officer is needed.

The council heard that Mr Taylor is coming from Middlesbrough Council.

Cllr Anthony Powers told the meeting he would like it noted that the employment panel was asked to make a recommendation based on "very little" information.

Alistair Neill, chief executive officer for Herefordshire Council, said: "We are delighted to welcome Mark to the interim role.

"Mark has great experience in senior finance roles with other local authorities, which we see as important in helping us to transition smoothly through to the recruitment and appointment of a permanent finance director."

Mr Robinson resigned as director of resources and Hoople MD designate on September 2 in order to resume his career in interim management.

In this interim period Hoople’s head of technology services, Nick Mather, will act as interim chief operating officer of Hoople, while the separate process of establishing a permanent managing director is considered.

A council spokesman said Mr Taylor is a highly experienced finance director and qualified chartered accountant with significant experience in the public sector.

He has worked with a number of local authorities across the country in senior finance roles, and is currently completing an interim period in Middlesbrough Council.

As Mr Taylor takes on the director of resources S.151 officer role, he will also assist in recruitment to the permanent position.

Every council must appoint a S.151 officer, responsible for arrangements for the proper administration of finance affairs and who has responsibility for the administration of those affairs.