A TOP Maldon District Council officer is stepping down from her role after just 18 months in the job.

Ka Ng, director of resources, was appointed back in January last year as part of a leadership shake-up to save £84,000.

Her role saw her offer strategic financial advice and take an active role in producing the annual budget for the council.

But she has now decided to leave the council and take up a new executive director job at Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council.

 Chief Executive Fiona Marshall said: "Sadly our Director of Resources, Ka Ng has tendered her resignation and intends to take up a new Executive Director job.

"This is a great opportunity for Ka, but a sad loss for us.

“Ka has been an extremely committed and hard-working individual, who has achieved a lot during her short time here and will be missed.

"Work is already underway to arrange some interim cover for the role and ensure the council’s services continue to be delivered effectively.”