North East Lincolnshire Council chief executive, Tony Hunter, has announced he will leave the authority in January to take up the post of chief executive of the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE).

He joined the council from Liverpool City council in 2008 as chief executive.

Mr Hunter was due to take over as president of SOLACE at the association's annual Summit next month. However, following his new role, he will have to step aside.

Mr Hunter, who has a background in social services,  said: "I've had five great years as chief executive here and this is in no small part down to the support given to me by staff in helping provide excellent services for our residents, communities and businesses.

Announcing the appointment Lord Michael Bichard, SCIE chair, said: ‘Tony has the perfect background for SCIE – combining over 35 years of experience in local authorities, charities and the private sector. He has clout at national level and as a social worker in children's and adults' services he has in-depth knowledge of direct practice. That – combined with his experience of working in private consultancy and disability and children's charities – makes him an ideal choice to lead SCIE.'

‘I have no doubt that he will hit the ground running and on behalf of the Board and staff, we look forward to working with him.'

North East Lincolnshire Council leader Chris Shaw paid tribute to Mr Hunter, said: ‘Tony has provided first class advice and support to both myself and colleagues since 2008 and is held in high esteem both in North East Lincolnshire and well beyond our boundaries.

‘He has been passionate about promoting the area's resurgence and has put in place a range of measures which augur well for a bright future here. He has helped develop our stronger economy and stronger communities agenda and we wish him well for the future in his new role.'