Nicole Wood took up the role of Chief Executive (CEO) on Thursday 13 February. Below is a summary of information about Nicole.
Nicole has worked in public services for 30 years, 20 years of that at a leadership level in many key departments including social care, education, customer and infrastructure.
Before joining ECC, Nicole worked at Hackney, the Audit Commission and Oldham Council. Joining ECC in 2008 Nicole has held a number of roles across the organisation, progressing her career and building experience and understanding of the authority.
Over the last couple of years, Nicole has been part of our Corporate Leadership Team (CLT) as Corporate Services Executive Director, leading our Corporate Services teams; those who are responsible for providing professional, efficient and effective support services across the organisation. This has included:
- Procurement Services
- Finance (including Income and Payments)
- Essex Pension Fund and ACCESS
- Transformation Delivery and Support
- Legal and Assurance
- Essex Digital Service
While Nicole is originally from Oldham in Greater Manchester, she has settled in. This is where she has lived for the last 20 years, choosing to grow her career here and make the most of what the county offers during her time outside of ECC and family life.
Nicole has previously said of her appointment: 'I am incredibly proud to take on this role at Essex County Council (ECC). I have a real passion for Essex as a place and for ECC, having been involved in the improvement and change over many years across different services. I am always so proud when Essex is recognised for its many achievements and accolades.'