There’s a new deputy in town as Tony Lloyd, Greater Manchester’s Police and Crime Commissioner, today announced his appointment of Jim Battle to help tackle crime.
Mr Battle, a public servant with more than 30 years of experience, will take up the £55,000 job in the coming weeks.
The role was announced earlier this month amid criticism that it was an unnecessary waste of tax payer’s money.
However Mr Lloyd defended the role and has now spoken highly of his new crime-fighting companion.
“Jim has a long and distinguished track record in bringing people across Greater Manchester together to make our communities safer,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to working with him on your behalf to drive forward this agenda in the coming years.”
Mr Battle, who fought off competition from 16 other applicants to win the role, has spoken of his delight at the appointment.
“I’m really pleased to be given this opportunity to serve the people of Greater Manchester,” he said.
“In these times of severe financial pressure we need to come up with innovative ways of working together so that our communities don’t suffer as a result of reckless government cuts.”
“I believe I’ve got the experience and track record to help make a real difference to the people of Greater Manchester.”
Mr Battle’s is currently Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council and he has worked for a number of charities, local authorities, and housing groups for more than 30 years.
The new deputy commissioner was selected as part of a transparent process that saw five candidate’s interview before three were put forward to Mr Lloyd for a final decision.
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