The Chief Executive of Staffordshire County Council is to step down after almost eight years in the role.

John Henderson joined the council in May 2015 and as head of the paid service, led the organisation through the COVID-19 pandemic.

He has overseen considerable changes in local government funding and operations in that time but maintained a relentless focus on delivering the best possible services for local people.

Staffordshire was consequently shortlisted for the Local Government Chronicle Awards Council of the Year in 2022.

Prior to his arrival in Staffordshire, Mr Henderson had a distinguished career in the British Army. His last appointment was as a Major General commanding the British Forces in Germany. John was appointed Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB) in the 2014 New Year Honours. 

Mr Henderson said: "It has been the greatest privilege to lead the officers and staff of Staffordshire County Council for the past eight years.

"Working for our residents to improve the quality of the services which we provide for them has been challenging and rewarding, never more so than during the COVID pandemic, when I drew inspiration from so many colleagues' efforts."

Alan White, the Leader of Staffordshire County Council, said: "Through John's calm and confident leadership, not least through the pandemic, the county council has remained absolutely focused on making a difference for people and businesses in Staffordshire.

"He will be a big loss to Staffordshire, but I am hugely grateful that John has agreed to remain in post until his successor arrives."