A SHROPSHIRE Council chief has been shortlisted for a top award.

Chief executive Andy Begley is one of three leaders nominated in the Public and Third Sector Leader category at the West Midlands Leadership Awards 2024.

The awards celebrate the people who are role models in their organisation, as well as showcasing the achievements and success of business in the region.

Mr Begley became chief executive in August 2020, after holding the post on a shared interim basis during the early stages of the pandemic.

A council spokesperson said the council is in challenging financial times and needs to reduce budgets and demand for key services, but that Mr Begley has taken the approach that where there are challenges, there are also opportunities.

"Key has been galvanising the whole organisation behind a clear vision and plan – The Shropshire Plan – and the difference every person can make," the spokesperson said.

Shropshire Council said this has resulted in clear signs of change, kickstarting a new culture and approach that has not been possible before.

The West Midlands 2024 Leadership Awards will take place on March 7 2024 at The Burlington Hotel in Birmingham.