It is official - John Barradell, chief executive of Brighton and Hove City Council is leaving the authority to join the City of London Corporation as town clerk and chief executive.

He will take up the new role in the autumn, replacing Chris Duffield, who is retiring after working in local government for nearly 40 years.

Mr Barradell, who was named chief executive at the city council in July 2009 on a salary of about £170,000, after joining the authority from Westminster City Council.

Mark Boleat, policy chairman at the City of London Corporation, who led the appointment panel, said: “I am pleased to welcome John as our new town clerk and chief executive. John brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise that will help to ensure the City Corporation is fit to meet the many challenges ahead of us.”

Mr Barradell said: “As a Londoner, I am delighted to be returning to the geographic heart of local government in the capital.

"The City of London Corporation has a well-established reputation for delivering high-quality services and I will do my utmost to maintain – and where possible improve – these standards.”

Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, Coun Jason Kitcat said: "John has made an enormous contribution to Brighton & Hove. He has played a major role in developing the council's culture and services to be more modern and efficient.

"He has ably supported our new administration whilst also celebrating the city's achievements and diversity with schemes like Peoples' Day and The Big Difference award. I wish him all the best in his new role."