Chief Executive of two councils to step down

David Williams, the Chief Executive of Portsmouth and Gosport Councils, plans to step down from his role this summer.

Mr Williams joined Portsmouth City Council as Chief Executive in 2007 and in 2016 it became a dual role as he assumed the same responsibilities for Gosport Borough Council alongside his existing role.

Highlights of his time working in Portsmouth include major projects such as Somerstown regeneration and coastal defences, the growth of the city’s International Port and a global spotlight from events including the D-Day 75 commemorations and America’s Cup World Series events.

During his tenure in Gosport the borough has secured Heritage Action Zone and High Street Action Zone status, built a new splash park in Lee-on-the-Solent and moved forward a number of regeneration projects.

Mr Williams has also had a big impact at a regional level by playing a lead role in organisations such as the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership and the Partnership for South Hampshire.

He said: “I’m very lucky to have been blessed with brilliant teams, colleagues and friends throughout my career. Equally we’ve had some great partners to work with in key organisations across the city and I’m really proud of the work everyone has delivered and the relationships we have forged that have put the city in a strong position to move forward.”

Leader of Portsmouth City Council, Gerald Vernon-Jackson, said: “I’ve worked with David throughout his entire time in Portsmouth and he has been a terrific servant to the city, giving strategic direction and building the council’s reputation while always wanting the best for our residents. He is viewed as a leader amongst chief executives across Hampshire local authorities as a result of his experience and is particularly valued for the role he plays in partnership working across health and the NHS.”

Work to find a new chief executive for both councils has begun.