Chief executive of Neath Port Talbot Council announces retirement

Ms Jones, who took up the position in 2020, has worked for the local council in a number of roles for more than 20 years. She is known for her work in leading the council through the height of the Covid pandemic, as well as for the approval of the major Celtic Freeport development which is set for the Port Talbot area. Speaking after the announcement, Ms Jones said she was honoured to have held the position in Neath Port Talbot over the past few years, and added that she had no doubt the local authority would be able to meet any challenges it faced moving forward.

She said: “I have had a wonderful experience working for Neath Port Talbot Council. It really is an organisation that is committed to serving its communities to the best of its ability and where officers and councillors continually seek to make a difference for local residents. I have been fortunate to work in a variety of different roles across the council and it has been an absolute privilege to serve as chief executive since 2020.”

She added: “The council is stable, provides good quality services and has a strong officer and councillor team ready to meet the challenges that will undoubtedly continue to face all public services. We have also created a once in a generation opportunity to transform our local economy through our successful freeport bid. As I move on to other things, I am sure my successor will bring fresh energy to take the council forward into a new phase.”

Leader of the council, Steve Hunt, said: “I would like to place on record my thanks to Karen for the contribution she has made to the council and our communities over such a long period and for being such a strong advocate for Neath Port Talbot. The purpose and vision with which she has led the organisation over the past few years have helped the council to both respond to unprecedented challenges and achieve some hugely ambitious goals