One of the main candidates for the chief executive’s role at the Local Government Association, Rob Whiteman, has been appointed as the new chief executive of the UK Border Agency.

Mr Whiteman, who currently heads up Local Government Improvement and Development – what used to be the IDeA – has ruled himself out of the top job at the LGA by taking on the Home Office post.

Mr Whiteman joined the IDeA in January 2010 from his role as chief executive of Barking and Dagenham LBC and was previously finance director and deputy chief executive at Lewisham LBC.

At the time of his appointment, he was hotly tipped to take over as chief executive of the LGA when current chief, John Ransford, steps down. The search has already began for a replacement for Mr Ransford, who is set to leave before the end of the year.

Mr Whiteman told The MJ he was ‘delighted’ to be taking on the exciting new role. ‘I’ very plesed to got this – it’s a cracking job. But I have really enjoyed my time at the Local Government Group.’

He replaces interim chief executive, Jonathan Sedgewick. The post was previously held by another former chief executive, Lin Homer, from Birmingham City Council, who moved to the department of transport in January.

LGA chairman, Sir Merrick Cockell, said: ‘Rob Whiteman has made a very significant contribution to local government through his roles in several leading councils and national work on our behalf. I am sure he will make an equal impact in central government and that his energy will bring success to UKBA and the Home Office.’

Home Office permanent secretary Helen Ghosh, welcomed the appointment and said: ‘ He has an outstanding record of service improvement and leading change in the public sector, and will ensure the UK Border Agency has the direction it needs during the challenges ahead.’

Home secretary, Theresa May, added: ‘Rob brings a wealth of experience to the department and I look forward very much to working with him.’