Published: Monday, 29th June 2026
The Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk has appointed Carl Holland on a permanent basis as Assistant Director of Finance and Deputy Section 151 Officer.
Carl has been acting up in the position since April 2025, following the promotion of Michelle Drewery to Deputy Chief Executive. He was confirmed as a permanent appointment following an internal interview process last week.
Alongside contributing to the council’s wider strategic direction and decision-making as part of the Corporate Leadership Team, he oversees the council’s Financial Services, Revenues and Benefits, Internal Audit, Procurement, Fraud Enforcement, and Customer Services.
Carl started his career in local government in the early 1990s and has worked in finance-related roles in Norfolk, Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire, apart from a period in the Civil Service as Head of Internal Audit at the Construction Industry Training Board.
Carl said: “I’m very pleased to be appointed permanently as Assistant Director of Finance, and to continue supporting colleagues across customer contact, revenues, procurement, finance and audit.
“Together, we will build on our strong foundations to deliver the ambitions of the council and our communities, ensuring our services remain at the forefront of modern local government.
“Having worked across many public sector services, I’m excited to take on this next phase, working alongside my highly capable service managers to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
Cllr Chris Morley, Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “Carl brings robust financial stewardship, considerable experience and insight – qualities so crucial to delivering efficient and responsive services for our communities during these times of ongoing change and challenge across local government.
“Carl has proved himself time and again to be an experienced and effective pair of hands. I congratulate him on his appointment and look forward to continue working with him and Michelle as we start to shape the budget for 2027/28.”
Kate Blakemore, Chief Executive, added: “Carl has been a valued support to me personally and the wider Corporate Leadership Team during his service as Assistant Director. An experienced leader in local government finance, he’s a great choice to continue taking West Norfolk forward as a permanent member of the Corporate Leadership Team. On behalf of all the officers, I’d like to congratulate Carl on the appointment.”