Halton Borough Council has announced today that long-serving Chief Executive, David Parr OBE, is to step down from his post at the end of March 2022.
The decision by Mr Parr to leave the authority follows 18 years in post as Chief Executive for Halton Borough Council and 38-years’ service overall in local government.
Commenting on Mr Parr’s departure, Cllr Mike Wharton, the Leader of Halton Council said: “David has been a really fantastic Chief Executive, a committed public servant and a valued colleague. He has given his all to Halton over the past 18 years and I would like to express my gratitude to him for the invaluable contribution he has made over the course of his tenure.”
“Along with his respected advice, professionalism and extensive experience, David’s dedication, drive and determination, have been instrumental in shaping the successful organisation and modern, well connected, forward-looking borough that we see today. “On a personal note, I also want to thank David for the support he has given me over the years and particularly over recent months in my new role as Council Leader. I wish him all the very best as he gets ready to take a new path, spending well-earned quality time with his family.
“While David will be greatly missed, the Council must also now look to the future. In the weeks ahead we will begin the process of selecting a new Chief Executive and work to ensure a smooth transition to these new arrangements. “At the same time we will of course continue with the daily work of providing the services that are essential in supporting our residents and press forward with our ambitious agenda of regeneration, transformation and investment, so that Halton continues to be a great place to live, work and visit.”
Talking about his decision to step down, Mr Parr said:
“As I’m sure many others have done during these unusual times, I have spent some time recently reflecting on my personal situation. This has led me to decide that now is the right time for me to take a step back from public service and spend more time with my family. I would like to thank Cllr Wharton for his support in accepting this decision.
“It has been a great honour and privilege for me to serve the people of Halton, over the last 18 years.
“I would like to thank the elected members of Halton for the support they have given me and my team, especially Cllr McDermott, Cllr Polhill and Cllr Wharton, the three Leaders I have worked with. Their personal leadership, has been invaluable to the success of Halton.
“I would also like to thank my colleagues at Halton Borough Council, as well as the many partners, in Halton, across the Liverpool City Region and in Cheshire and Warrington, who I have worked alongside over the years and who have all contributed significantly to what is being achieved here in Halton.
“I am enormously proud of our successes and the progress we have made as a borough during my time as Chief Executive. I have no doubt that with the leadership of Cllr Wharton, Halton will continue to punch well above its weight going forward. I wish my successor every success.
“Finally, I must give special thanks to my family, who have supported me during my time in Halton and throughout my career. I really look forward to spending more time with them and exploring the new opportunities more personal time will offer me.”
