At East Suffolk’s annual Council meeting in May, Cllr Jenny Ceresa became the first woman to be elected as Chair to the local authority since its formation following the merge of Suffolk Coastal and Waveney district Councils in 2019. 

Jenny Ceresa currently represents the Carlton Colville Ward, in addition to being a serving member of the Planning Committee and the Scrutiny Committee. Jenny is also elected to Suffolk County Council, for Lowestoft South.

Cllr Ceresa takes over from Oulton Broad Councillor, Keith Robinson, who was elected in September 2020 and chaired the Council during the pandemic. Cllr Ceresa, who served as Cllr Robinson's deputy during his chairmanship, said:

“It’s a real honour to be the first female Chairman of East Suffolk Council. Never, in the seven years since I was elected, did I think I'd be at the top table.”

As Civic Head of the Council, Cllr Ceresa will represent the Council in all civic and ceremonial matters, as well as presiding over meetings to ensure that debate and decision making takes place in line with the procedure rules in the Constitution.

East Suffolk Council leader, Cllr Steve Gallant, said:

“I am delighted to confirm the election of Cllr Jenny Ceresa to the important role of Chair for the next year. I'm equally pleased that Cllr Ceresa becomes the first female Chair for East Suffolk Council. The Chair holds several key responsibilities in their civic and ceremonial leadership of the Council. They must transcend party politics in chairing full council meetings and acting as representative at public engagements. I'm certain that Cllr Ceresa will set out to fulfil these duties with admirable commitment, diligence, and enthusiasm.”

Cllr Ceresa's deputy for the 2022/23 municipal year will be Martlesham and Purdis Farm ward councillor, Chris Blundell.

Warmest congratulations Cllr Ceresa and Cllr Blundell.