Islington Council welcomes new 'impressive' public health chief

The new Director for Public Health for Camden and Islington - Julie Billett - has been welcomed by both councils.

The responsibility for public health transfers from the NHS to local authorities on April 1. Camden and Islington Councils anticipated closer collaboration to create a single Public Health Director to cover both authorities.

Both councils' chief executives were on the recruitment panel.

Julie Billet started her new role on Friday.

Islington chief executive, Lesley Seary added: "We are delighted Julie has started her new role as Director of Public Health.

"Julie's depth of knowledge and enthusiasm is impressive and her experience of delivering services will be a real asset in shaping and leading the public health team across our two boroughs."

Until 31 January 2013, Julie was Deputy Director of Public Health in Islington, where she has worked for the past five years.