City Council chief to leave role

Carole Mills

The chief executive of Derby City Council has announced her intention to step down in the New Year.

Carole Mills, who joined from Milton Keynes Council in 2018, has decided to take early retirement.

She cited a recent health diagnosis and a desire to spend more time with her family as the reasons for her decision.

Mills was the first woman to be appointed CEO at the Council.

She said: “This is a decision I’ve not come to lightly, having been in public service for over three decades and having come to Derby with every intention of being in post for three years or more.

“However, a recent health diagnosis alongside those of my husband has strongly influenced my decision.  I also have elderly parents to support and a little grandson with a heart condition. The time has come for me to put my family first.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here and am sorry to be leaving.  I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some incredibly dedicated, hardworking and talented people who are very much here for Derby.  I will be likewise until my very last day in post.

“Derby is a great place and I wish the city and Derby City Council all the very best for the future.”

It has been proposed that Paul Simpson, strategic director of corporate resources and deputy chief executive, should become acting CEO until a permanent replacement is found.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Chris Poulter, said: “I was really saddened to receive notification of Carole’s intention to retire from Derby City Council but entirely understand and fully support her personal reasons for doing so. Carole has devoted most of what has been a long, dedicated and distinguished career, to public service. She should be extremely proud of all her achievements.

“On behalf of my group members and myself I wish her every health, happiness and better fortune in the coming months and years, of what will be a well-earned retirement.”

Click here to sign up to receive our new South West business news...
Close