The chief executive of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council is retiring.

Julie Beilby has worked for the Tonbridge authority for nearly 40 years.

Ms Beilby, 63, joined the council in April 1984 as an assistant in the leisure department and went on to hold senior roles in the central and customer services teams before being appointed to the top job in February 2013.

During her time with the council, Ms Beilby has overseen major projects and co-ordinated the response to challenging events.

She led work to secure funding for the restoration of Tonbridge Castle from a derelict shell to the popular visitor attraction it is today and project-managed the construction of Tonbridge Swimming Pool.

As chief executive, she oversaw the response to serious flooding in Tonbridge at Christmas 2013 and more recently to the Covid-19 pandemic.

In a message to staff, Ms Beilby said: “My time at the council has been characterised by sharing the platform with first-class colleagues who have believed in the ethos of public sector services and upholding the highest professional standards for our residents, businesses and visitors.

“Having undertaken many front-line roles myself, I am also aware that many of you will be providing critical advice and support to individuals, families and businesses across the borough.

“I am grateful to you all for the support you give to our residents and businesses each and every day.”

“It has been a privilege to have had such fantastic colleagues over the years.”

Ms Beilby will leave the organisation in February.

A meeting of the full council will be convened in the coming weeks to appoint an interim chief executive.

Matt Boughton, leader of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, said: “Julie has been a wonderful chief executive and, personally, has been a great source of strength and advice since I became leader.

“She has devoted her working career to serving the residents of our borough and has been a driving force behind the many important initiatives the council has delivered for the benefit of our community.

“We wish her a well-deserved retirement and thank her for all she has done for both the council and the people of Tonbridge and Malling.”