Hampshire County Council will confirm Gary Westbrook as its new Chief Executive at a Full Council meeting on 17 July, following his recommendation by a cross-party Member Appointment Panel after a national recruitment process.
The appointment follows a comprehensive selection procedure, with the cross-party Member Appointment Panel meeting on 26 June to recommend Mr Westbrook for the position. He currently serves as the authority’s Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Hampshire 2050.
Pending formal ratification by the Full Council on 17 July, Mr Westbrook will assume duties as Acting Chief Executive from 19 July, before officially becoming Head of Paid Service on 4 August. This follows the planned retirement of the current Chief Executive, Carolyn Williamson.
Mrs Williamson declared her intention to retire from Hampshire County Council on 21 March 2025, concluding four years as the organisation’s first female Chief Executive. Her tenure at the council spans 15 years, forming part of a distinguished public service career exceeding 40 years.
Councillor Nick Adams-King, Hampshire County Council Leader, commented: “Gary Westbrook possesses extensive experience, comprehensive organisational knowledge, and an outstanding leadership record. His 15 years of dedicated service to the County Council demonstrate the strategic insight and public service commitment that were clearly demonstrated during the selection process.
“During this period of substantial transformation and opportunity within local government, Gary’s vision, integrity, and demonstrated leadership capabilities will prove essential as we continue our evolution and modernisation. His appointment arrives at a crucial juncture as we manage Local Government Reorganisation and devolution whilst maintaining our commitment to delivering excellent services for Hampshire residents.
“I extend my gratitude to councillors from all political parties who participated in this significant process. I am certain that Gary represents the ideal candidate to guide our organisation forward.”
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Hampshire County Council ranks amongst the nation’s largest local authorities, providing services to 1.4 million residents throughout the county. The Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service role involves responsibility, through the Council Leader, for overseeing an annual budget of approximately £3.1 billion and directing a workforce of nearly 10,000 direct employees, plus many more indirect staff including personnel across hundreds of Hampshire schools.
