A new director of community and housing was announced at the full council meeting this week.

Hannah Doody, currently senior assistant director for operations and partnerships in health and social care in Greenwich’s adult and children’s social care services, will begin her new role on July 10, 2017.

Ms Doody has been involved in adult social care, mental health, housing needs and integrated health and social care services.

Hannah Doody said: “I am pleased to be coming to work for Merton. I look forward to working with members, partners, colleagues and staff to deliver key services to our customers and residents.”

Merton Council cabinet member for adult social care and health Councillor Tobin Byers said: “We interviewed many strong candidates for this important job at the council.

“Hannah impressed us with her depth of experience and knowledge and will undoubtedly prove a worthy successor to Simon. I very much look forward to working with her.”

Simon Williams retires from this role after 11 years in the borough.