2. Directors
Directors Team
Director of Finance (S151 Officer) - Simon Davey
Bio: Simon has served as Director of Finance since February 2011.
Starting as a finance trainee at the council more than 38 years ago, he advanced through several roles, eventually becoming a chartered accountant.
Simon leads multiple teams, helping them thrive, while ensuring the council remains financially sustainable to continue delivering key services.
He is proud of his role in creating the Exeter Science Park Company bringing significant benefits to the region and establishing a shared IT company for three local authorities.
Director of Governance (Monitoring Officer) - Melanie Wellman
Melanie is the Director of Governance and Licensing and Monitoring Officer at EDDC, joining in April 2023.
A qualified solicitor, Melanie is passionate about local government, valuing its close connection to communities.
Previously at Sedgemoor District Council for 20 years, she now serves as a Local Government Association corporate peer and will participate in her first council review this November.
Melanie enjoys collaborating with colleagues at East Devon, delivering high-quality services while supporting members in achieving their goals.
Director of Housing and Health - Catrin Stark
Catrin is the Director of Housing and Health, previously joining EDDC in March 2024 from Executive Director of Homes and Communities in a Welsh Housing Association.
Passionate about doing the right thing, Catrin is continually developing the right culture within her team to provide effective and efficient customer-focussed services that improve people’s lives, homes and communities.
With a key focus on customer engagement and change management, Catrin is working with colleagues to develop housing and health services to ensure they meet customers’ needs.
Director of Place - Andrew Wood
Andrew was appointed Director of Place in October 2024, having previously held a role as an assistant director at EDDC.
He joined the council in 2010 and has more than 25 years’ experience in the South West - working across local, regional and central government.
He is a chartered town planner by background with a passion for placemaking and ensuring that communities can thrive.
Andrew oversees a variety of services at the council including StreetScene, countryside, planning and regeneration.