Northumberland County Council Chief Executive Steven Mason is leaving the organisation to pursue fresh challenges.
Steven has been with the council for nearly 15 years, working in a number of financial roles, and has been chief executive for the past three years.
Speaking about his departure, Steven said: “It is with sadness that I have decided to leave the Council after nearly fifteen years service to the residents of Northumberland.
“During my time the Council has faced many challenges, most notably local government reorganisation and the impact of cuts in local government funding over an extended period of time.
“The Council’s approach and direction will change significantly following the recent County Council election and it is an appropriate time for new managerial leadership at a time when the political leadership has changed with a radically different agenda.”
The Council Leader, Councillor Peter Jackson, thanked Steven for leaving a strong and stable organisation which would give the new administration time to agree new priorities.
The current Deputy Chief Executive Daljit Lally will be the interim Chief Executive.
Following the formation of a new administration at full council yesterday it has been agreed Steven can leave immediately to allow a smooth transition to a new Chief Executive.