City of Wolverhampton Council has made two new appointments to its cabinet. Cllr Steve Simpkins has been appointed as the new cabinet member for governance and Cllr Jacqueline Sweetman has become the new cabinet member for city assets and housing. Council leader, Cllr Ian Brookfield, explained that he had acted quickly to fill the two vacant posts to ensure critical areas were covered during the coronavirus crisis. Cllr Brookfield said: “It is of paramount importance that our cabinet plays a leading role during these testing times. “Both of these roles were vacant with me and deputy leader, Cllr Louise Miles, covering the portfolios in the interim. “However, all cabinet portfolios require a dedicated member to fulfil the role and to this end, I have taken the decision to appoint to these positions. “I am sure that with the knowledge, skills and experience that both councillors bring, they will fulfil these roles with distinction.” Cllr Simpkins represents Bilston East ward and was first elected in 2002. He was formerly shadow cabinet member and then cabinet member for leisure between 2008 and 2010. He said: “This opportunity to serve as cabinet member for governance is an important one to ensure that people’s concerns and voice are heard and implemented in policy to benefit all in this great city of ours. I will be fully committed to getting the very best for all our citizens.” Cllr Sweetman has represented Graiseley ward for 10 years and has a background in political research and public affairs consultancy and is a trained leadership coach. She said: “I have a deep commitment to Wolverhampton. We have a history of adapting this city to meet the needs of the future, ensuring ongoing success for the people of Wolverhampton and I am proud to be part of that process.”
