Ref. 71731WOMEN IN THE MONEY: Rebecca McKenzie, 34, is head of human resources at Swindon Council.

The salary band for her job is between £55,000 to £73,000.

She has been working for the council since March. She came from Australia to take the job,

New to local government, Rebecca says that she has found the council to be open to new ideas and it values the things people from different backgrounds can bring to it.

She said: "The figures demonstrate that women can, and have, achieved at the top levels of local government.

"There are a number of female executive role models here in the council and it's great to see the different dynamic that they bring to management and leadership.

"Swindon has a strong business focus at the moment.

"In this context, we're always actively seeking to recruit the best that the local employment market can offer and the council can be a great place to work.

"Our positive performance in employing so many women sends out the right message to candidates."