Subject to the appointment being approved, Simon – who is currently serving as our Executive Director for Adult Social Care and Health – will take over from our outgoing Managing Director Emma Alexander who leaves the authority later this month.
Simon started his career with us in 2008 as an area manager, becoming assistant director of adult social care in 2014, then director in 2018 before becoming executive director in 2023.
Simon said:
“It’s a huge privilege to be recommended for this important role and to continue to serve the people of Derbyshire.
“It is a time of significant challenge and opportunity both for the council and for our key partners as we individually and collectively navigate financial pressures, transformational change and preparations for local government reorganisation.
“I very much look forward to working in partnership, both within the organisation and beyond, as we strive to respond to those key challenges while continuing to ensure we deliver high quality, effective and efficient services for local residents.”
Councillor Alan Graves, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “We’re delighted to recommend Simon’s appointment to the role of Interim Chief Executive and look forward to working with him to deliver on our priorities to benefit communities across the county.
“Simon brings a wealth of experience to the role having worked for the council for 17 years, latterly as Executive Director for Adult Social Care and Health. He has an impressive people-centred leadership style and strong commitment to delivering for Derbyshire residents.
“We’d also like to thank Emma Alexander for her service to the people of Derbyshire and wish her all the best in her future role at Tameside Council.”
Emma Alexander first joined Derbyshire County Council in September 2017 and will take up the role of Chief Executive at Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council.
Emma said:
“I’d like to extend my personal congratulations to Simon and wish him every success as he prepares to take up the role at the end of October.
“He is truly dedicated to Derbyshire and will provide excellent leadership while the council progresses recruitment to the Chief Executive role on a permanent basis."
Subject to the appointment being approved, Simon will continue as Interim Chief Executive until the role is filled on a permanent basis, which is expected to be concluded by next Spring.
Full Council will also be asked to approve the change in name of the role from Managing Director to Chief Executive, which will ensure better alignment with the majority of other council.