New Managing Director Commissioner and Chief Executive announced for Slough

Ministers have today (15 July) announced their intention to appoint Dr Dave Smith as Managing Director Commissioner (MDC) and Chief Executive at Slough Borough Council, taking over from Will Tuckley.

Slough Borough Council welcomes the appointment as we continue to improve the way we work, deliver services and embark on an ambitious and cross cutting programme of transformation. Dr Smith is an experienced local government leader whose career has focused on public-sector transformation, economic development and devolution. He is currently the Managing Director Commissioner at Thurrock Council, where the recruitment of a permanent Chief Executive is underway, marking a positive milestone in Thurrock Council’s improvement. Following the appointment of a Chief Executive at Thurrock Council, Dr Smith will subsequently take up the role of MDC at Slough, bringing a strong record of supporting council improvement to help drive this next phase of Slough's transformation. 

The MDC role has proven effective in focusing Slough on key improvements to the council including strengthening its finances, approach to transformation and improving services, governance and decision making. There are now firmer approaches to partnership working, staff engagement and resident engagement with marked improvements in levels of trust among residents and staff satisfaction. Dr Smith will build on this progress by working with Members, staff, residents, partners and other Commissioners to continue improving services for local people. 

Gavin Jones, Lead Commissioner for Slough Borough Council, said: “I am delighted that the Minister is minded to appoint Dr. Dave Smith as the next MDC for Slough. I have worked with Dave at Thurrock for the last three years and have seen the positive impact of his leadership on the improvements at Thurrock. Dave will be able to build on the fantastic work that Will Tuckley has done in preparing the Council for the next stage of its improvement journey.”

Cllr Wal Chahal, Leader, Slough Borough Council, said: “We wanted the best possible appointment for Slough. After meeting Dave and learning more about his experience, I am confident he is the right person to support Slough at this time. I look forward to working closely with Dave. 

“This appointment builds on the significant progress made so far and on behalf of the council, I thank Will for his hard work and commitment to Slough and wish him all the best for the future. 

“Together with councillors, staff, residents and partners, we will remain focused on better outcomes for the community, while maintaining the momentum of improvement.” 

Dr Dave Smith said: “It is a privilege to be asked to support Slough Borough Council on its improvement journey and I am excited to be taking up the role of Managing Director Commissioner there. 

“I am very grateful to Thurrock Council Officers and Members for the opportunity to work with them to help them deliver significant improvements and I wish the council every success going forward. I am looking forward to helping Slough Council's Members and Officers realise more of their ambitions to improve the council and deliver for the people of the borough. "

Will Tuckley, Managing Director Commissioner and Chief Executive of Slough Borough Council, said: “It has been a privilege to serve the people of Slough. While there is more to do, considerable progress has been made, and I am proud of what has been achieved together. The organisation is stronger, with a plan in place for continued improvement and transformation. 

“I would like to thank everyone I have worked with for their commitment and support. I wish Dave, the council and all who serve Slough every success.” 

Slough Borough Council has been under Government intervention since December 2021. Commissioners are appointed by Government to provide support and drive improvements.