At a recent meeting of Rotary Newton Aycliffe, President Jean Thompson and members welcomed Dan Austin, Town Clerk to Great Aycliffe Town Council. Dan gave an insight into his life so far, his love for his hometown of Newton Aycliffe, his route to landing the ‘top job’ within the Council and his vision for the future.
Dan related that he is Newton Aycliffe born and bred, and his passion for the town and commitment to his high-profile position comes through, yet he strives to keep a work life balance between the job, his family, and a love of football, music and keeping fit.
He was honest and open about dropping out of university and losing his way then, fortuitously, securing a modern apprenticeship in the finance department of Sedgefield District Council got him back on track. He qualified as a Chartered Accountant and in 2007, he applied for and was offered the Finance Manager’s job at the Town Council. Two years ago, when the Town Clerk retired, Dan applied and was appointed to the post.
Dan told us that he relishes the opportunity to work with other agencies and has a great sense of pride in the facilities provided by the Town Council and the professionalism of the staff. For the future, he would like to build on partnerships, progress work on such as modernisation and environmental issues, further develop events and continue to advise the Council on its economic challenges.
We think we are in safe and secure hands. Good luck Dan!