PETER Martin has tipped the Conservatives to win at May's election and his deputy David Finch to succeed him as leader.
On May 2, 75 councillors will be elected to represent the people of Essex for the next four years.
Departing leader Peter Martin said: "I would be very surprised if the Conservatives didn't win at the next election, but nationally we're less popular than we were last time.
"David Finch as deputy leader is in a good position to take over."
One of the most senior county councillors in Essex, Cllr Finch has been appointed to lead the party's campaign for the county elections in May 2013.
The Tory, who represents the Hedingham division, has been chosen to spearhead the campaign for re-election of the Conservative administration at County Hall.
Cllr Martin added: "David is a seasoned campaigner who is also a former leader of Braintree council and has served on the county council for many years.
"He has also led the transformation programme at County Hall and is the man behind the vast multimillion pound savings of taxpayers' money which has led the Conservatives to deliver its third year freeze on council tax. His vast experience makes him the ideal choice to lead our campaign for re-election to run County Hall on behalf of the Conservatives and the people of Essex."
