Council chief steps down after six month absence

The chief executive of Cheshire East Council has left his role by mutual agreement after an absence of more than six months.

Rob Polkinghorne, who was appointed in January 2024, had been "unwell" since the end of last year, the council previously said.

On Monday, the authority said it was "mutually agreed" that Polkinghorne would step down from his role and that he wished to focus on his family and future priorities.

"Rob also wishes to place on record his sincere appreciation for the dedication, professionalism and continued commitment shown by staff across Cheshire East Council in supporting residents and communities throughout the borough," a spokesperson added.

Cheshire East previously spent £37,736.84 on a "rigorous recruitment and selection process" to appoint Polkinghorne to his role.

The authority added it would now begin recruitment for an interim chief executive.

"In the meantime, the chief executive's delegations and duties will continue to be covered by Helen Charlesworth-May, executive director for adults, health and integration, supported by the corporate leadership team," it said in a statement.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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