Suffolk County Council’s chief executive to step down

Nicola will leave at the end of March 2026 and the process to appoint a new chief executive will begin shortly.

Reflecting on her decision, Nicola said:

“Serving the people of Suffolk has been a great privilege and I am immensely proud of what has been achieved together over the last eight years.

“Leaving this job has not been an easy decision, and I have thought long and hard about it. However, I believe this is the right time to hand over leadership to those who can steer and support colleagues through local government reorganisation over the next two years, whatever option the Government decides to implement.

“I would like to thank all of my colleagues, Matthew and his Cabinet and all councillors for their support and I wish them the very best for the future.

“I do not have another role lined up – I am simply looking forward to a new change of pace and lifestyle, enjoying this wonderful county and taking time to travel and see family and friends.”

Cllr Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said:

"Nicola has led the council through an important period of change and achievement.

“She is very well-regarded, hardworking and has an exception knowledge of the complexity of public service, plus an unfaltering desire to deliver the best services for the people of Suffolk – the county that she loves.

“Under her tenure and with strong political leadership, Suffolk County Council is well positioned to rise to the challenge and opportunity of local government reorganisation. Her legacy will be enduring and deeply felt.

“I want to thank her for her outstanding leadership and dedication, and I wish her all the best for the future.”

Amongst her achievements, Nicola has:

• Managed a budget of £850 million and led the authority’s 6,294 staff, significantly improving the council’s culture
• Negotiated local government reorganisation and created the legacy for lasting stability during the next phase
• Transformed adult social care and ensured the improvement in children’s and young people’s services
• Led the council and partnership response through the Covid pandemic
• Opened Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service’s new control room and ongoing improvements across the service
• Strengthened emergency planning and response, particularly during Storm Babet
• Opened the £146 million Gull Wing bridge in Lowestoft
• Brought the library service back in house

Nicola joined Suffolk County Council in May 2018 from Essex County Council, where she was director of infrastructure and environment. Previously she was chief executive of Braintree District Council.

Nicola’s last day will be March 31^st having completed her three months’ notice period. She handed her notice in before Christmas, but it was agreed to hold the announcement until some important milestones had passed, including the closure of the LGR consultation.

Details of her replacement will follow.