THE chief executive of St Albans district council Daniel Goodwin has announced that he is leaving his role after six years to take up a senior position at the Local Government Association.

Mr Goodwin, who has been at the council since July 2006, today (Thursday) said: “I have accepted an offer of a new role of executive director (finance and policy) at the Association.

“This is a brilliant opportunity which is too good to miss. It will put me right at the heart of local government at a time when challenges to it have never been greater.

“I look forward to taking up this exciting national role helping councils to plan their future finances and policies.”

Mr Goodwin paid tribute to the “great team” he is leaving at the council, adding that he had been, “continually impressed by the quality of the staff, councillors, partner organisations and the wider community.

“Leaving will be a huge wrench, but it is better to say goodbye a little too early than a minute too late.

“Now is the right time for a successor to bring a fresh approach for the future. I will always think of the district and the council with affection.”

Executive leader of the council Cllr Julian Daly commended Mr Goodwin for doing a “good job for the people of St Albans.

“He leaves with our thanks and good wishes for the future. I am sorry to see him go.”