The new Property Ombudsman has been revealed as Katrine Sporle.
Sporle, 61, will take over from Christopher Hamer when his nine-year term ends on 30th November.
Sporle has an impressive career to date and is being welcomed into the role.
She was the chief executive of the Planning Inspectorate for England and Wales between 2003-11, responsible for 1,000 members of staff and a £60m budget. She also reported directly to Parliament.
Previously, Sporle was the chief executive of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council for eight years, controlling a budget of £58m.
Sporle is currently the executive director and chapter clerk at Salisbury Cathedral, the most senior lay leader at the 750-year-old church.
The Property Ombudsman (TPO) offices are located in the same city in Wiltshire.
Sporle, of Hampshire, was awarded a CBE in December 2010 for outstanding public service.
Chairman of TPO Council since 2009, Lord Richard Best OBE, says: “Selecting our ombudsman is a key responsibility of the independent TPO Council and we are truly delighted to have secured someone with the breadth and depth of experience – at local and national levels – which Katrine brings to this role.
“Christopher Hamer is a very hard act to follow but I am confident we have found a great successor.
“I know all TPO’s members and well-wishers will join me in extending the warmest of welcomes to Katrine when she starts in November.”1
Board Chairman of TPO Scheme, Bill McClintock, adds: “I welcome Katrine Sporle as the new ombudsman and endorse Lord Best’s comments.
“I believe her broad employment background will be a huge benefit in performing her new role.”1
Hamer’s next move is unknown, but it is believed he could become involved in Government departments due to his valuable skills.
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I think this is a positive change, she'll make a great senior member of staff and will handle the senior role well.