Reports of sharing Oldham’s CEO ‘not true’

Charlie Parker

The Leader of Rochdale Council, Councillor Colin Lambert, has said reports that Rochdale is set to share Oldham Council’s Chief Executive Charlie Parker are "not true".

Various news reports published today suggest that Mr Parker will be shared with Rochdale Council following the news that RMBC Chief Executive Roger Ellis has applied for early retirement.

Councillor Lambert dismissed reports suggesting the share was discussed at Rochdale Council’s budget meeting last night.

He said: “We were all there and nothing like this was said.”

When the news of Mr Ellis’ request for early retirement broke yesterday (Wednesday 23 February 2011), Councillor Lambert said the Labour party are “keen” to “explore” the possibility of sharing Chief Executive and other senior management posts. 

Councillor Lambert added: “I have begun discussions about these possibilities with the Leaders of the other three Groups.” 

Speaking to Rochdale Online's sister newspaper, the Oldham Evening Chronicle, Oldham’s Chief Executive, Mr Parker said he was unable to comment on a possible joint role and added: “These things are matters for the political leadership. 

“In these circumstances, it is something that is difficult for individuals to comment on.”