Cookie preferences
Toggle menu

Have your say on the future of local councils in Surrey

Take part in a landmark Government consultation on proposals to replace Surrey's current councils with up to three larger authorities. We support a three unitary approach - Find out more and read our consultation question guide.

Join us for a special online engagement session hosted by the Leaders of Guildford and Waverley Borough Councils on Thursday 3 July from 7pm to 8pm via Microsoft Teams. We'll explain what Local Government Reorganisation is, outline the different options being considered, and show you how to get involved. Sign up for the session (opens new window).

New Joint Strategic Director of Finance and Section 151 Officer appointed

Richard Bates, Joint Strategic Director of Finance

Guildford and Waverley Borough Councils have approved Richard Bates as the Joint Strategic Director of Finance and Section 151 Officer.

Councillors approved the appointment at:

  • Guildford Borough Council Extraordinary Full Council meeting on 16 April 2024
  • Full Council meeting of Waverley Borough Council on 23 April 2024

The Joint Strategic Director of Finance and Section 151 (S151) Officer is a key role. It's part of the Corporate Management Board at Waverley and Guildford Borough Councils.

Mr Bates has been in the role of interim Executive Head of Finance and S151 Officer since 17 July 2023. More recently he took on the role of Interim Joint Strategic Director of Finance.

Mr Bates is a qualified accountant and experienced local authority Chief Financial Officer. He has previously held:

  • the S151 Officer role at Dorset County Council
  • interim S151 Officer at Mendip District Council.