Breaking News - Conrad Hall Out as Section 151 Officer
Conrad Hall - Director of Resources for the London Borough of Newham commonly known as the Section 151 Officer.
In July 2025, following the sudden departure of Abi Gbago, Paul Martin was appointed to the post of (interim) Chief Exec.
Martin had previously applied for the substantive post of chief exec and whilst unsuccessful he had been regarded as a good candidate who was clearly appointable.
We understood that Martin came to Newham with a clear mandate from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government; make sure that Newham is solvent. Mayor Fiaz was left with little doubt that her time in charge was coming to an end.
She might be in post, but the spending decisions would be made by competent officers. Martin had to turn the ship around or risk the commissioners coming in after May.
We are now beginning to see the consequences of his appointment.
Martin has brought in Maria Christofi as Interim Assistant Chief Executive for Change and Improvement. We understand that there is going to be something of a clearing of the dead wood, starting at the top. Christofi has a reputation as a sharp shooter and many in Redbridge speak to her competency.
Maria Christofi
Fiaz favourite, Corporate Director of Resources Conrad Hall is about to announce that he is moving on to pastures new. As to whether he was pushed or jumped is of little relevance as the longest serving member of the golden triangle with responsibility for the finances surely Newham’s shambolic handling of its finances has to land at his door.
Our sources tell us that he will be moving to Croydon a borough in even worse financial shape than Newham.
It is yet further evidence that Fiaz is losing control, not only of the majority group but of the levers of power in the council.
Hall’s replacement has not yet been announced, but we can expect Martin to be seeking a safe pair of hands. We are told that the new section 151 officer may already be in the building, only time will tell if we are correctly informed.