Peter Duxbury leaves Birmingham children's services role

The head of children's services at Birmingham City Council has left the role with immediate effect.

Peter Duxbury, a former social worker, was appointed as strategic director by the authority in January 2012 in a bid to turn the department around.

The service has been under a notice to improve since 2009.

The council said the decision to part company was by "mutual consent". The strategic director for adults and communities will take temporary charge.

An authority spokesperson said: "Peter Duxbury has left the employment of Birmingham City Council by mutual agreement the terms of which are confidential but are in line with those offered to other staff leaving the council.

"The council is continuing with the improvement strategy for its services for children, young people and families and has asked Peter Hay CBE, strategic director for adults and communities, to take over responsibilities in the interim."