Council chief executive OBE 'an incredible honour'

Sharon Kemp was named in the King's Birthday Honours

The chief executive of Rotherham Council has said it was "an incredible honour" to be appointed OBE as part of the King's Birthday Honours.

Sharon Kemp was selected for the leading role in the authority in 2016 by government-appointed commissioners after a report was published into the council's handling of child sexual exploitation.

Ms Kemp has been appointed OBE for her services to business and to the community in Rotherham and South Yorkshire.

She said it was "a privilege to do this job and to be part of such a dedicated team".

Ms Kemp previously worked for Manchester City Council and more recently has been seconded to help Nottingham City Council sort out its financial woes.

'Steadfast commitment'

Councillor Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, said: "Sharon has been central to the council’s improvement journey over the past eight years."

"Her energy, drive and unrelenting focus on delivering the best services possible for the people of Rotherham has been evident throughout our work together," he added.

"She has played a key role in developing and improving partnerships across the borough and South Yorkshire, increasing collaboration and maximising opportunities for the area.

"As we continue to tackle the challenges facing our borough over the coming months and years, Sharon’s steadfast commitment to good quality public services and to our communities will continue to drive further success."

Ms Kemp said she wanted "to thank those, past and present, who have not only supported the council’s journey so far, but continue to work together to create an even better future for Rotherham and the wider region".

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