APPLICATIONS are now closed in the hunt to find Bolton Council’s next chief executive.

Current town hall boss Margaret Asquith announced in July that she will be retiring next March.

She took over the post in November, 2015 when former chief executive Paul Najsarek shocked staff by quitting just five months into the job.

The council is expected to conduct interviews with candidates — who could earn between £163,000 and £173,000 in the job — in mid-September.

An appointment is expected to be made in October, allowing the new chief executive to start work in the new year.

The job advert stated: “Working closely with members, staff, stakeholders and partners, you will help develop our vision to 2030 and ensure we continue to deliver high quality and efficient services.

“We are therefore looking for an experienced leader with a track record of success at a senior level within a fast changing and complex organisation.

“You will have the skills to work at the highest levels of government and also understand the need to balance regeneration and development with running great services for our residents.”