Worcester City Council’s ambitious programme of efficiency development and service improvement has taken a major step forward with the appointment of a Head of Service. Nick Jefferies, who currently works in a senior position for Gloucestershire Constabulary, is due to take up his post in September and he will be responsible for planning, developing and leading the new service which is aims to promote high quality service alongside efficiency savings across south Worcestershire.

The creation of the new shared service is a joint initiative between Worcester City Council, Wychavon District Council and Malvern Hills District Council. The three authorities are joining forces to improve the collection of council tax, business rates and administration of benefits across south Worcestershire. The new service will be based in Pershore at the current offices of Wychavon District Council.

Mr Jefferies said: “I am extremely pleased to have been offered this post and am very much looking forward to working with colleagues from the three councils. I was particularly attracted to this innovative project because it will improve the service to residents and provide efficiencies for the three authorities.

He continued, “I have sensed a great deal of enthusiasm for this project from everyone I have met so far. I look forward with relish to the challenges this new role will present and developing the Shared Service Organisation as a single team.”