Castlereagh Borough Council chief executive Adrian Donaldson, 53, will replace Trevor Rainey, who over the summer moved to become clerk and director general of the Stormont Assembly.

Last night councillors from every political party on the council paid tribute to Mr Donaldson’s abilities, variously describing him as “even-handed”, “an excellent chief executive” and “a perfect gentleman” who would be an asset to the Policing Board.

The chief executive is involved in the day-to-day running of the board, which oversees the work of the PSNI, but is a less high profile position than that of chairman, a post currently held by Sir Desmond Rea.

A spokeswoman for the Policing Board confirmed that it would make an announcement next week about the position.

Mr Donaldson, who is also chairman of the local government emergency management group, said that he was delighted to be selected.

“I look forward to working with the board on the challenges affecting policing in Northern Ireland,” the Belfast man said.

Mr Donaldson holds two masters degrees and was given an MBE for services to local government in 2006.

Castlereagh councillors said that Mr Donaldson had been a “great asset” during his 11 years as chief executive.

TUV Councillor Charlie Tosh described him as able and courteous.

“I’ve known Adrian since before I was on the council and during time on the council — I have always found him to be a perfect gentleman,” he said.

“He is very helpful and would go out of his way to clarify points and I admire him for the fact he would not bend the knee to crawlers.”

Ulster Unionist Councillor Michael Henderson said: “Adrian is an excellent chief executive.

“He always puts the ratepayers first and lets us know when we’re over-stepping the mark if we go that far.

“He knows about statistics, is a good organiser and how to use manpower well.”

SDLP former deputy mayor of Castlereagh, Brian Hanvey, described Mr Donaldson as “very even-handed and impartial in all his dealings — irrespective of which political party people are from”.

“I have every confidence in his ability and his experience to carry out the duties of Policing Board chief executive,” he said.