Treasurer to take early retirement
Mike Weaver, Worcester Council's Finance Director, is leaving the council at the end of August to take early retirement.
Mike Weaver leaves his position as finance director at Worcestershire County Council at the end of the month. The 59-year-old asked the council for early retirement on Tuesday, August 3, which was accepted.
Mr Weaver currently acts as Treasurer to both Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Authority and West Mercia Police Authority through agreements with the Council's finance team.
His departure comes as the county council embarks on a package of cuts over four years, with both the police and fire service also having to tighten spending.
With 43 years in local government, he has been the council finance chief since 1997 and is respected by councillors of every stripe.
His role, earning up to £107,000 a year, will be covered by the current corporate services director Patrick Birch, from Wednesday, September 1.
Council chief executive Trish Haines said she had been aware of Mr Weaver’s wish to retire early, adding the senior management structure would be reviewed following his departure.
She described Mr Weaver as an “extremely valued colleague” whose “professionalism, skills and judgement will be missed.”
“We now have an opportunity to look at senior management to see if the current structure is right for the organisation now and in the future,” she added.
Councillor Liz Tucker, Liberal Democrat group leader, said she had “a great deal of respect” for Mr Weaver but the party wanted “fewer directorates” to help save money.
David Brierley, police authority chief executive, said that Mr Weaver’s performance had been “exemplary”. Mr Weaver’s services were part of a £20,000 a year agreement with the county council for use of its finance services, signed in April 1998.
Mr Brierley said: “Mr Weaver directly informed us he was tending his resignation of the county council and we need to make alternative arrangements.
“He’s decided he wants to take early retirement.”
Mr Weaver said: “My decision to retire is a personal and private matter,” adding he felt “extremely fortunate” to have served Worcestershire for 13 years.
