Nina Dawes OBE

The chief executive of Lichfield District Council is set to retire.

Nina Dawes OBE will stand down after 11 years in the job in December.

Nina Dawes OBE
Nina Dawes OBE

She has become a highly regarded official within the local government nationally and was chair of the District Councils’ Network in 2010-2011.

“This has been a difficult decision for me as I love Lichfield district and still feel, as I approach my eleventh year as chief executive, that I have been incredibly privileged to have had this role,” she explained.

“I feel so fortunate to have worked alongside such dedicated and talented people, both within the council and within local partner organisations.

“However, as I approach my 65th birthday, I realise there comes a time when we need to embrace the next phase of our lives. After some 30 years spent working in local government, each of which I hold dear, I feel the time is right to retire.”

Councillor Mike Wilcox, leader of Lichfield District Council, said: “We are very sorry that we won’t have Nina at the helm.

“Her contribution to our district has been exceptional and I know her leadership will leave a lasting legacy for our residents.

“In her time at the council, Nina has overseen many fantastic achievements – ranging from reaching the number one spot in the national recycling charts, and more recently in developing the Staffordshire Hoard Mercian Trail, which has seen the Staffordshire Hoard displayed at venues including Lichfield Cathedral, Stafford Shire Hall and Tamworth Castle, as well as ably leading on difficult issues such as responding to the floods of 2007, for which Nina was deservedly awarded an OBE.

“But, above all this, I think the legacy that Nina will leave behind is her belief that people can do fantastic things and that we’re stronger when we work with others.

“As a local council, it’s impossible to do it all, and Nina’s dedication to the people who make up Lichfield District Council – councillors and officers, and the partnerships she has been instrumental in building, has made such a difference and delivered real improvements to local services that have touched many people’s lives.”

Nina added: “I am very proud to have played my part with councillors, officers and partners.

“We are a strong council with exceptional and supportive partners, and I know that the district council will continue to go from strength to strength, achieving even better things, making this district an even better place to live, work and visit.

“I will always hold Lichfield District dear in my heart.”

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.