THE COUNCIL’s chief has today announced his resignation from his post as Managing Director.

Ian Wardle is stepping down from the mantle to move back to his native North East where he will take up the role of Group Chief Executive of Thirteen Group, a housing association company.

Mr Wardle revealed the decision to councillors last week, and members have paid their tributes to the hard work he has done for the council since taking the reins in February 2013.

Cllr Jo Lovelock, leader of the council, said: “Whilst we are obviously sorry to lose Ian, at the same time I would like to congratulate him for securing a position close to his home which he obviously felt he could not turn down.

“Ian joined us in 2013 at a challenging time for all local authorities. In that time he has helped to drive through more than £60 million worth of savings and efficiencies.

“The scale of Government cuts mean much work remains, but I would like to thank Ian personally for his huge contribution and to wish him and his young family every luck for the future.”

Mr Wardle joined the council from Redcar and Cleveland Borough council, where he held the position of director of regeneration.

Arrangements to find a successor will be agreed in the coming weeks, and interim support will be announced in the near future.

The managing director said it was a tough decision to make, but the chance to head back to Sunderland was too good to turn down.

He said: “This has been a hugely difficult decision for me. I had not been looking to leave Reading but I have been offered a role that is for me and my family a once in-a-lifetime opportunity. “I will be returning to work in my native North East and to the housing sector, which is where I started my working life and is something I remain passionate about.

“I have been with Reading for three rewarding years, during which time I have worked with som egreat folk who are meeting the challenge and want to make a difference every day “Over the next few weeks and months it is business as usual and I will be working with colleagues to ensure there is a smooth handover.”

Mr Wardle is expected to start his new role with Thirteen Group in July this year.