Shepton Mallet council appoints new chief officer

By Laura Linham 23rd Sep 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 1 hour ago

Shepton Mallet Town Council has appointed Christina Edgar-Hiatt as its new chief officer.

The council announced the appointment on Monday, 21 September, saying Ms Edgar-Hiatt brings experience from two parish councils in Gloucestershire and most recently worked as clerk at Burford Town Council in the Cotswolds.

She is also a qualified fundraiser and a member of the Institute of Fundraising.

Councillor David Crisfield, chairman of Shepton Mallet Town Council, said: "We are delighted to welcome Christina to Shepton Mallet Town Council.

"She brings valuable experience and a strong range of skills to the role, and we look forward to working with her as we begin this new and exciting chapter for the Council and the town."

The appointment comes as the council makes other changes to its staffing and meeting arrangements.

A new deputy clerk and responsible financial officer is due to join on Thursday, 15 October, while councillors have agreed changes to several committee dates over September and October.

The council said the revised timetable was intended to allow it to clear a backlog of financial matters, prepare its 2026/27 accounts and begin work on committee budgets for 2027/28 while the new member of staff is brought into the organisation.

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Several September and October committee meetings have been cancelled or moved as part of those arrangements, with budget reviews scheduled across the autumn.

The town council has 16 councillors and is responsible for a range of local services and assets, including Collett Park, alongside community projects and town events.

The council said Ms Edgar-Hiatt will be introduced to residents, community organisations and local partners over the coming months.