Wakefield Council chief executive Merran McRae to step down from role

Wakefield Council's chief executive Merran McRae will leave her position, the local authority has confirmed.
Ms McRae joined Wakefield Council in 2017, after five years as chief executive at Calderdale Council.Ms McRae joined Wakefield Council in 2017, after five years as chief executive at Calderdale Council.
Ms McRae joined Wakefield Council in 2017, after five years as chief executive at Calderdale Council.

Ms McRae had requested early retirement after she was diagnosed with cancer at the end of last year.

In a statement issued on Thursday morning, she said the move would allow her to focus on her recovery and spend more time with her family.

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Ms McRae, who took over the position at the head of the council in 2017, had previously been chief executive at Calderdale Council for five years.

Ms McRae will stay in her post until the end of September.Ms McRae will stay in her post until the end of September.
Ms McRae will stay in her post until the end of September.

She returned to work earlier this summer after a period of time away following her diagnosis.

Ms McRae said: "I am so proud of this district, with its wonderful culture, history and welcoming communities, and the significant progress we have managed to achieve over the last few years. That is why this has been an incredibly difficult decision to make.

"As many people are aware, this has been a particularly challenging year for me, health wise.

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"Although it is with a heavy heart that I have decided to request early retirement, I am confident that it is the right decision for me personally, allowing me time to focus on my recovery and spend quality time with my family.

“I feel privileged to have worked with extremely talented colleagues, members and partners, who are so passionate about what they do. I have never failed to be impressed by the clear demonstration of commitment, enthusiasm and energy that goes into providing services for residents."

During Ms McRae's time in office, the council advanced plans to develop the derelict Rutland Mills into a cultural hub complete with housing, studios, restaurants and cafes, while the city's eastern relief road was also completed.

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The council's Labour leader Denise Jeffery said Ms McRae had been "a pleasure to work with".

She said: “Merran has put in place the strong foundations for recovery as we rebuild from the effects of the pandemic and has brought great investment into our district which will see even more improvements taking shape in the years to come.

“I wish her the very best in her retirement and a speedy recovery as she takes time to concentrate on her health, and I am sure that she will continue to see that the hard work, enthusiasm and commitment that she gave to the council will provide a solid foundation for great things to come."

Ms McRae, who was earning £173,000 a year in the role, will stay in post until the end of September.

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The council's corporate director for adults, health and communities, Andrew Balchin, who deputised for Ms McRae during her absence earlier this year, is expected to be appointed as interim chief executive while the search for her successor takes place.

Local Democracy Reporting Service

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