The Ribble Valley Council's Policy and Finance Committee met on Monday, September 29, 2025, to discuss and recommend the appointment of a new Chief Executive to the Full Council. The committee endorsed the recommendation of the Sub-Committee, and recommended that Sarah Threlfall be appointed to the post of Chief Executive of Ribble Valley Borough Council.

Appointment of New Chief Executive

The committee endorsed the recommendation of the Sub-Committee and recommended to Full Council that Sarah Threlfall be appointed to the post of Chief Executive of Ribble Valley Borough Council.

The Chief Executive submitted a report outlining the selection process undertaken by HR and the Policy and Finance Sub Committee. According to the Public Reports Pack, twenty-four applications were received for the position. Five candidates underwent a detailed interview process over two days.

The new Chief Executive would also take on the roles of the Council's Head of Paid Service and the Council Electoral Registration Officer, acting as Returning Officer for all UK General Elections, Council and Parish Council elections. They may also be appointed as a deputy or local returning officer in respect of other elections such as Police and Crime Commissioner, Lancashire County Council elections.

The minutes of the meeting record that the committee gave thanks to the Sub Committee and the Officers involved for their hard work during the recruitment process.

The committee resolved to recommend to the Council:

• The appointment of Sarah Threlfall as Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service
• The appointment of Sarah Threlfall as Returning Officer for all local and parish elections, (Acting) Returning Officer in respect of parliamentary elections, and Returning Officer, Deputy Returning Officer or Local Returning Officer in respect of all other elections or referenda as prescribed by the relevant legislation.