Fond farewell paid to Wolverhampton council MD Keith Ireland
Tributes have been paid to the departing managing director of Wolverhampton council Keith Ireland, who has been credited with transforming the image of the city.
Mr Ireland, aged 53, is to step down from his role to take over as the new chief executive of Lincolnshire County Council, having spent six years in the city.
Black Country Chamber of Commerce board member Ninder Johal, said: "What was unique about Keith is that he did not only see his role as being with the city, he saw the importance of the wider region and the West Midlands as a whole.
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"He did a fantastic job of bringing people together in what was often a turbulent environment, and the region benefitted as a result.
"You could always reach out to him, and he would reach out back in a helpful and friendly way. I wish him all the best for his new position. Whoever replaces him in Wolverhampton will have some big shoes to fill."
Former city mayor, Councillor Milkinder Jaspal, said he was sad to see Mr Ireland go.
"His leadership has transformed the image of the city, which has improved dramatically in the time that he has been here," he said.
"He has been the driving force behind a lot of the major projects in Wolverhampton. They stand as a credit to his work ethic and expertise in pushing things forward.
"Keith will long be remembered as someone who got things done."
Opposition Tory leader Councillor Wendy Thompson, said: "I think he has done a very good job and tried very hard to bring about a culture change at the Civic Centre.
"That was much needed and has helped the council become more customer orientated.
"He has made it a more professional workforce which is extremely important for the council.
"Overall he has done a good job as managing director."
