One of Kent County Council’s most senior and highest paid officials has taken a sudden and unexpected leave of absence from her role. Zena Cooke, corporate director for finance and procurement, is understood to be still working for the authority but her deputy John Betts has now stepped into the position. Her role carries a salary of up to £155,000 a year, according to KCC bandings. Conservative KCC leader Roger Gough read a short statement to his group members yesterday morning (Jan 22) at County Hall. Cllr Gough gave no reason for Ms Cooke’s absence. Ms Cooke’s job, which she has held for mo…