Chief Executive Nick Tustian announces retirement from Eastleigh Borough Council
Recruitment under way for successor
The Chief Executive of Eastleigh Borough Council, Nick Tustian, has announced that he will be retiring in May 2022.
Nick, 64, has led the authority since 2013, having joined Eastleigh in 2000 as the council’s Chief Financial Officer. Nick began his local government career in 1974 with the newly created Cherwell District Council and moved a number of times before joining Eastleigh from neighbouring Southampton City Council.
During his time at Eastleigh, Nick has overseen a root-and-branch transformation of the council that has delivered major efficiencies, introduced a new case management system of service delivery and improved performance monitoring, with a shift to digital and a greater focus on customer service and commercialisation.
He has been instrumental in building a £220 million property portfolio within the borough that now generates around £12 million in income each year. He led the project that created the council-owned Ageas Bowl in West End, the home of Hampshire Cricket and host to international matches, as well as large-scale concerts.
Other key projects during Nick’s tenure include the creation of high-quality housing schemes across the borough through a groundbreaking joint venture, the delivery of a £25 million state-of-the art fitness, health and leisure centre, and a range of projects promoting sustainability, wellbeing and economic development.
Nick said: “I am very proud to have worked for Eastleigh Borough Council for over 21 years, and to have been Chief Executive for the past eight years. The last 18 months have perhaps been the most challenging and I am still amazed at the commitment and dedication shown by all staff in dealing with the pandemic. We know that life in local government is never boring and it feels like the right time - for both myself and for EBC - for someone else to lead the council over what will be a very challenging, but also very exciting time.”
Paying tribute to Nick, Council Leader, Councillor Keith House, said: “Nick has been an amazing Chief Executive, leading our staff team, and as a great ambassador for the Council and Borough around Hampshire and beyond. He has been a pleasure to work with as Council Leader and has been pivotal in the delivery of our vision of creating healthy communities, a green borough, business prosperity and the provision of high-quality homes.”
The search for Nick’s successor is now under way with recruitment consultants McLean Partnership supporting the council’s HR team in the process. A recruitment microsite has been set up where candidates can find out more about the role, the application process and who to contact.