Mr Wiles, 40, has been acting head of resources since March 2000 whilst the council has been reviewing the organisation of its central services - including the Department of Resources which is responsible for the council tax, housing benefits, ITT, the registry office, property and purchasing, accounting and audit.

Mr Wiles has secured the post following a nationally-advertised recruitment process. He has been at the council since 1997, joining as head of financial services. He was previously head of strategic finance at the London Borough of Lewisham and also worked for the London Boroughs of Southwark, Hackney and Newham.

An economics and politics graduate of the University of York, Mr Wiles live in York and is treasurer of the St Paul's Square Garden Association. Hobbies include watching football, films and the theatre.

Mr Wiles said, "The main issues for the department over the next few years will be to continue modernising and improving our IT systems and services, implementing five Best Value reviews and to draw together the finance, property, IT and other sections within the recently transformed department into an efficient team.

"More immediately my role will be to help steer the council through the forthcoming budget process for 2003/04."

Council chief executive Mr Atkinson said, "I am very happy that the council has appointed such an able and committed new director in Simon. I am sure he will do a good job for the council and the citizens of York."

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