Emma Grima has been appointed as the new Chief Executive for East Cambridgeshire District Council.
She will take over from the UK’s longest serving district council Chief Executive, John Hill, who retires after 30 years of service at the Ely-based authority on 31 December.

Emma joined the authority in 2015 and has worked her way through the ranks to become Director – Commercial, responsible for overseeing many of the council’s successful projects and its trading companies; East Cambs Trading Company and East Cambs Street Scene. 

Emma said: “I am hugely honoured to be taking over the helm from John Hill, who has done a fantastic job in overseeing the council since 2000.

“Throughout much of that time I have been working alongside him, other staff and councillors helping to oversee and deliver some of the exciting projects and initiatives the council has become renowned for. I have been extremely proud of what we have achieved.

“My job between now and local government reorganisation will be to continue to deliver the excellent services the council provides; ensuring sound financial management, making sure we get the very best deal for the residents, businesses, the economy and the landscape of East Cambridgeshire.”

Cllr Anna Bailey, Leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “I am extremely pleased to be able to welcome Emma to the new role of Chief Executive. She is a dedicated, motivated and resourceful leader, whose excellent advice and unwavering sense of commitment have helped shape the council over many years. With her knowledge of strategic planning, infrastructure, local community and economic redevelopment I cannot think of a better person to be taking over from John Hill as we enter such a new, exciting and challenging phase of local government.”