Birmingham Prison is to get a new director once it is privatised in October.

Sue Saunders will take up the role when the Winson Green prison transfers to the operational control of G4S in October.

Ms Saunders, former Governor at HMP & YOI Holloway, has worked in the Prison Service for 21 years, starting as a prison officer, and working her way up through the ranks at jails across the country.

She is currently in charge of the team managing the transition of the prison from the public to the private sector.

The role of prison director is similar to that of a governor.

Ms Saunders said: “Since arriving at Birmingham to lead the G4S transition team, I have been greatly encouraged by the constructive discussions I have had with prison staff and their representatives.

“I would like to thank the former governor of the prison James Shanley for the help that he has given me since my arrival in the prison.

“I am also delighted that the interregnum governor Peter Small has made clear that he intends to work in close partnership with me and my team during the transition process.

“I am looking forward to starting my new role in October and to working together with all the staff in this next exciting chapter of Birmingham’s history.”