Guernsey's head of public service to step down

Mark de Garis was made head of public service in July 2022

Guernsey's top civil servant has announced he is to retire next year.

Mark de Garis, head of public service in the Guernsey States, is stepping down ahead of the election scheduled for June 2025.

Mr de Garis has worked in public service for 40 years and has given advanced notice so the States can plan a handover period for the role in preparation for next year's election.

Deputy Lyndon Trott has thanked Mr de Garis for "his exemplary commitment to the public service over his distinguished career."

Mr de Garis said occupying the role since July 2022 had "been the privilege of my career"

He said: "When I accepted the role... I was clear that my intention was to support the current political body during an immensely challenging time but that I was unable to commit to the next political term."

A recruitment campaign to appoint his successor will begin soon, the States said.