Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority (BBNPA) has received 39 applications from hopefuls who want to become its boss.

At a meeting of the authority last week, members were provided with an update on the process of finding a new chief executive by BBNPA chairman Cllr Gareth Ratcliffe.

Cllr Ratcliffe said: “We’ve had 39 applications and we are obviously starting the process of going through those.

“Members will have received an email on your involvement in the appointments panel and the process.

He “encouraged all members” who are not on the interview panel to attend a meeting on June 24 to meet the candidates.

Cllr Ratcliffe went on to thank departing chief executive Catherine Mealing-Jones for all of her hard work during the last five years.

Cllr Ratcliffe said: “I wish you all the best for the future.”

Members then gave Ms Mealing-Jones a round of applause.

Cllr Ratcliffe added that later in the meeting members would go into confidential session to appoint an interim chief executive.

In March, the Senedd voted to approve her nomination to the role of Auditor General for Wales.

The decision followed a “rigorous recruitment” process led by the Senedd’s Finance Committee.

Ms Mealing-Jones is set to take up the role on July 21, succeeding Adrian Crompton, who has served as Auditor General since 2018.

Chairman of the Wales Audit Office board, Dr Ian Rees, said: “I look forward to working with Catherine as we build on the excellent work performed by Adrian.

“I am confident that Catherine will continue the close co-operation with the board following her commencing the role in July 2026 to ensure that public funds in Wales are used effectively for the best benefit of the people of our country.”

Ms Mealing-Jones took up her role with Bannau Brycheiniog in July 2021.