Swansea CC has appointed executive director, Jack Straw, as its new chief executive, following a restructure of the local authority's top team. Mr Straw, who joined the authority in 2005, will replace the existing chief executive, Paul Smith, who retires at the end of the month.

‘I am delighted to be appointed and look forward to working with councillors, staff and partners to deliver quality public services,' said Mr Straw. He has been appointed on a fixed-term contract as chief executive until September 2012 or until the council appoints a permanent chief.