Lichfield DC has announced that Diane Tilley is set to take on the top role after the long-standing chief executive, Nina Dawes OBE, retires from the council in late December Ms Tilley, who has previously worked as interim chief executive at Wyre Forest DC, will start as the new chief executive in January 2013.

Cllr Mike Wilcox, leader of Lichfield DC, who headed up the interview panel, commented: 'We were delighted to offer the role of chief executive to Diane and we're really looking forward to welcoming her on board in the new year.