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A message from Councillor Alan Graves, Leader of the Council - 11/12/20205

11 December 2025

Dear colleagues,


Neil Crittenden has been officially appointed as our new permanent Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service following approval by Full Council. Neil will officially take up his post on 19 January 2026.

Until Neil starts, arrangements have been agreed to ensure continuity with Chris Henning acting as Head of Paid Service on an interim basis, supported by the existing senior leadership team. These arrangements will remain in place until Neil formally assumes his responsibilities.

I am confident that Neil’s leadership will help us deliver high-quality services and drive forward our priorities for Derbyshire, and I am sure you will join me in welcoming Neil to the organisation when he begins his role in January.

Kind regards,
Alan Graves, Leader of Derbyshire County Council