Former Wolverhampton Council boss leaves new role after just four months

Keith Ireland quit his £177,000-a-year role as boss at the Civic Centre in August to take over as chief executive at Lincolnshire Council.

But he has now left his new post by mutual consent, with Lincolnshire Council's Tory leader Martin Hill saying the authority had failed to share the same approach as Mr Ireland on a number of key issues.

In a joint statement to staff, they said: "We are writing to let you know that Keith is leaving the council.

"Over the last few months, it has become clear that we do not share the same approach to a number of important issues that are facing the council, and, in these circumstances, we are agreed that a parting of the ways is the best way forward for both of us.

"Whilst unfortunately things have not worked out, we are united in wishing each other the very best for the future."

Councillor Hill added “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Keith for his work and the energy he has brought to it. I wish him every success for the future.”

Mr Ireland replaced Tony McArdle, who stepped down after 12 years in the role earlier this year.

He announced he was leaving Wolverhampton Council in May having started there in 2012.

He spent four years as managing director, during which time he was credited with improving the authority's performance and reputation.

His departure was shrouded in controversy after Council leader Roger Lawrence claimed turmoil within the authority's ruling Labour group played a part in his decision.

Mr Ireland has neither officially confirmed nor denied the claim.