Neath Port Talbot Council’s Chief Executive has announced that she will retire towards the end of 2024. Karen Jones has worked for the Council in a variety of senior roles for over 20 years and took up the role of Chief Executive in 2020 where she has led the Council from the height of the pandemic into recovery.
Reflecting on her decision Karen said:
“I have had a wonderful experience working for Neath Port Talbot Council. It really is an organisation that is committed to serving its communities to the best of its ability and where officers and councillors continually seek to make a difference for local residents. I have been fortunate to work in a variety of different roles across the Council and it has been an absolute privilege to serve as Chief Executive since 2020.”
Karen continued:
“The Council is stable, provides good quality services and has a strong officer and councillor team ready to meet the challenges that will undoubtedly continue to face all public services. We have also created a once in a generation opportunity to transform our local economy through our successful Freeport bid. As I move on to other things, I am sure my successor will bring fresh energy to take the Council forward into a new phase.”
Responding to the news Councillor Steve Hunt, Leader of the Council said:
“I would like to place on record my thanks to Karen for the contribution she has made to the Council and our communities over such a long period and for being such a strong advocate for Neath Port Talbot.
“The purpose and vision with which she has led the organisation over the past few years have helped the council to both respond to unprecedented challenges and achieve some hugely ambitious goals.
“Karen is respected across Wales as an inspiring, innovative, and driven chief executive and will leave the council in a strong position for her successor.
“I wish Karen all the very best as she prepares to spend more time with her family. We will miss her when she leaves towards the end of the year. In the meantime, I’ll look forward to continuing to work with Karen to progress our priorities.”
