A slimmed-down management structure at Colchester Council will see managers having to re-apply for their jobs and some will find themselves out of work.

The number of head of services roles is being cut from 12 to nine, as the authority responds to its changing roles and responsibilities.

Adrian Pritchard, the council's chief executive, said: "Our managers will have to demonstrate they have suitable skills for the new posts. There are likely to be a few job losses, but these are big boys and girls and will have to deal with that."

The proposed changes, to be discussed at a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, will retain the strategic management unit, comprising a chief executive and three executive directors, two of which are currently vacant posts.

Below that level, the number of head of service managers, responsible for running services, such as planning or social and economic regeneration, will be cut from 12 to seven.

Published Friday, January 21, 2005

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