Council chiefs to step down after two decades

From left: North Kesteven District Council's deputy chief executive, Phil Roberts, with council leader Richard Wright and chief executive Ian Fytche

The two most senior officers at North Kesteven District Council have announced they will step down after decades of service.

Chief executive Ian Fytche and deputy chief executive Phil Roberts said they had reached their decisions independently.

Councillor Richard Wright, the leader of the authority, said their departures would be a "significant loss", but they would leave the council in "a strong, positive and optimistic place".

Mr Fytche, who has been in post since 2006, said it was the right time to "explore new directions".

'Good shape'

It had been a "huge privilege" to lead "an excellent local authority with a strong vision", Mr Fytche added.

Mr Roberts said being part of the "evolution" of the council for the past 20 years had been an "absolute pleasure".

The decision to leave was a "difficult one", but the time was right "to allow a new leadership team to come together".

Mr Fytche is due to leave at the end of December and Mr Roberts in September, following a recruitment process and a period of transition.

Mr Wright added: "They leave us in very good shape for the future and the steps ahead in serving and supporting our communities."

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