BOURNEMOUTH council’s new chief executive has been asked to watch his language after a series of controversial staff briefing sessions.

Tony Williams, who replaced Pam Donnellan at the helm of Bournemouth council in March, has held dozens of sessions with staff to expl-ain his vision for the organisation.

But the Daily Echo has learned that some staff reported him using colourful language at the sessions.

Bournemouth council has admitted that Mr Williams’ message was “not appreciated” by all staff and that there had been an issue with his use of “casual language”.

A union official has since spoken to Mr Williams about the inappropriateness of swearing in front of staff. Mr Williams was not available to talk to the Echo.

In a statement, the council said: “The chief executive undertook 33 roadshows, attended by around 1,000 staff.

“The roadshows covered a range of issues, including the context of financial pressures we are facing, which will mean a smaller council in future.

“Obviously this has implications for staff which some will find uncomfortable and as such it is not surprising that the delivery of this message was not appreciated by some. Staff were asked for feedback and there have been many compliments.

“However the chief executive is happy to discuss issues with any individual concerned about the future direction of the council or the way in which this was presented.”

And Richard Saunders, human resources and organisational development service director, said in a statement: “The council has a formal complaints process in place and we have not received any complaints through this process about our chief executive.

“I understand that Unison has met with the chief executive following the staff roadshows to discuss his use of casual language during these internal events.”

One council employee, who does not want to be named, said: “He has not wasted time in making his mark following his new appointment.

“It became clear it is either his way or the highway.

“Many staff were shocked into silence by the tone he took and the words he used.”