Kingston Council announces new Executive Directors of Residents and Communities and Corporate Services

Louise Footner will take up the role of Executive Director of Residents and Communities, while Sue Cuerden has been confirmed as Executive Director of Corporate Services and Section 151 Officer.

Louise joined Kingston Council in January 2019. For the past year she has held the position of Interim Director of Communities. With over 20 years experience in local government, her responsibilities included, Communications, Engagement and Partnerships, Strategy and Performance, Community Focus, Culture and Heritage, Neighbourhoods Service, and Highways, Transport and Regulatory Services.

Vastly experienced in engagement and strategic communications, community development and delivering corporate objectives, Louise was previously Assistant Director of Culture, Communities and Engagement at Kingston. Before that, she was Head of Communications at Surrey County Council.

New Executive Director of Corporate Services, Sue Cuerden, has extensive experience in local government, most recently as Executive Director for Corporate Services and Assets at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council. In this role she was also Section 151 Officer and director for the council’s joint venture housing development company.  Previous to this, Sue spent 25 years at Southampton City Council, culminating in the role of Service Lead for Corporate Planning and Commercialisation.

On the appointments, Chief Executive Sarah Ireland said:

“After a thorough and robust process, I am delighted to welcome Louise and Sue to these new positions.

"Louise’s passion for community development is something I have witnessed first hand over a number of years, and she has the talent, dedication and desire to play a leading role in serving our residents, working with our partners, communities and stakeholders in innovative and constructive ways. 

“Sue’s record delivering robust financial management alongside organisational development and transformation is hugely impressive. Her vast experience and knowledge will enable us to ensure we can continue to deliver for those that need us most. I have no doubt Sue will be a superb addition to our senior leadership team.”

Louise said:

“I am looking forward to building on the great work already happening with, and for, Kingston’s communities and residents. Many of the services in the directorate are used by our residents in their daily life and our focus will be on providing the best service possible.”

Sue said:

“I am excited to have the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to work with such talented and dedicated officers and members to deliver services to a vibrant and diverse borough.

“I look forward to working alongside our key partners to address the challenges of providing local authority services whilst ensuring the continuous delivery of customer focused services for the residents, communities and businesses within the borough.”

Louise and Sue will take up their appointments on 3 June 2024.