Exeter City Council has a new chief executive.

At an extraordinary council meeting on Monday [13 March], and following a recruitment process, councillors unanimously supported the appointment of current deputy CEO Bindu Arjoon.

Ollie Heptinstall, local democracy reporter www.radioexe.co.uk

She is the council’s first female chief executive and replaces Karime Hassan, who is leaving after a decade in charge.

In a statement, Ms Arjoon said she is delighted. “Exeter is a fantastic city which has built very firm foundations for its future success, and I am looking forward to embracing the opportunities and dealing with the challenges that lie ahead.

“We have a fantastic team at the council who are committed to delivering the best possible services for all of our residents, and together with our partners we will continue to ensure that Exeter remains a city we can all be proud of.”

Ms Arjoon, who has worked in local government leadership for 19 years, is also chair of the governing body of St Leonards Primary School and St Peter’s Secondary School and is currently chair of the Corporation of Exeter College.

Council leader Phil Bialyk (Labour, Exwick) said: “Bindu has been part of our leadership team here at the council for many years. She brings a wealth of experience to the role and has the skills, vision and expertise to make sure that we succeed as a council and as a city, in collaboration with our partners.

“I know Bindu will be a great success and I very much look forward to starting a new chapter in the successful story of this great city.”

Speaking at the full council meeting, co-leader of the opposition Progressive Group, Cllr Kevin Mitchell (Lib Dem, Duryard & St James) added: “I think Bindu’s going to do an outstanding job for the council and, more importantly, also for the city.”