THIS is the man responsible for the success, or failure, of Herefordshire Jarvis Services.

Mike Williams has been appointed to head what is the largest and broadest strategic partnership scheme in England.

Leading a team of more than 512 ex-Herefordshire Council employees, Mr Williams' says his aims are to increase employee job satisfaction and reduce bureaucracy and paperwork. He also hopes to introduce the 'benefits of proven technology to a major local authority'.

An ex-miner in his native north-west, he has joined Herefordshire Jarvis Services as project director from Amey Highways.

The Herefordshire project is the first time that such a broad range of operations have transferred from council control, and been brought together as a partnership with a single private organisation.

As well highways maintenance, the new Herefordshire Jarvis Services is responsible for street cleaning, the maintenance of public parks, grounds and buildings, schools catering and road signs.

It also has responsibility for a previously council-owned printing plant.

"All employees have moved seamlessly to the new organisation along with vehicles, workshops and equipment," Mr Williams said. "We are already investing in new technology and products that will improve productivity and make employees' jobs more rewarding.

"The Herefordshire workforce brings vital local knowledge as well as a considerable level of skill and experience."

"We are able to offer the management skills and resources of one of the country's largest and most successful service support businesses," he added.