Bucks County Council (BCC) has appointed a new senior director of children’s services.

Tolis Vouyioukas – who is currently strategic director of people at the London Borough of Sutton – will join the BCC team in October.

He is a qualified social worker, with a background in psychology, and started his career at Essex County Council in the early 1990s – predominantly working in child protection.

Mr Vouyioukas said: "I'm passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of the children and families the council serves. Keeping children and young people safe and making sure that they get the best education possible is my top priority.

"Buckinghamshire has a good reputation, but there's more still to do. I look forward to working with my new team at the council, its partners and the children and young people across the county to ensure this agenda is delivered."

Interim children’s services director Gladys Rhodes White will remain in post until Mr Vouyioukas takes over in the autumn.

Cabinet member for education and skills, Mike Appleyard, said: “I am delighted that Tolis is joining Buckinghamshire.

“The experience, wealth of knowledge and leadership skills he brings will help us continue to deliver the best possible education services for our children and young people."