Tony McArdle took up his post as Chief Executive of Lincolnshire County Council in September 2005. At that time the Council was suffering from significant corporate governance and service failures, and was under the immediate threat of government intervention. Lincolnshire now enjoys a reputation as a progressive and successful authority with a strong profile in a number of areas.

Prior to moving to Lincolnshire, for seven years, Tony was Chief Executive at Wellingborough Borough Council in Northamptonshire.

Tony was Acting Chief Executive of North East Derbyshire District Council in 2004 and led their improvement programme. He carried out a similar role at South Northamptonshire Council in 2005.

Tony has been involved in delivering elements of the Council of Europe's programme to improve local government practice in Croatia, Bulgaria and Russia; and has participated in the ‘Leeds Castle’ Local Government Leadership Programme and BT’s ‘Vital Vision’ scheme.