New Chief Executive recommended by Derbyshire County Council

Derbyshire County Council Leader Councillor Alan Graves made the announcement that following a thorough recruitment process, Neil Crittenden will be recommended as the authority’s new Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service, subject to formal approval by Full Council on 10 December.

Neil is currently Interim Vice President at Alton Towers Resort, part of global leisure and hospitality giant Merlin Entertainments, and has accountability for strategic direction, organisational performance and commercial growth.

Councillor Graves said: “I am delighted to make this announcement and I’m sure that Neil’s expertise in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement and cross-functional leadership will serve this council and local government well. 

“With many years of executive leadership experience, Neil has a proven track record in driving organisational transformation and managing large-scale operations.’’

Neil’s career to date includes oversight of multi-million-pound budgets, complex service delivery and high-profile projects, underpinned by a commitment to improving customer and visitor experience - skills that translate directly into delivering high-quality services for residents and communities. 

In addition, he brings extensive experience of working within a highly regulated industry, ensuring rigorous compliance with health, safety and legislative standards while maintaining operational excellence.

Neil Crittenden said: “I’m delighted to be recommended as the new Chief Executive for Derbyshire County Council, and if my appointment is agreed by Full Council I will very much look forward to taking on this exciting role. 

“It will be a privilege to work with such a forward-looking Leader, Cabinet and elected members, and I’m particularly looking forward to meeting and working with great colleagues across the council and doing my best for the residents of Derbyshire.”

Until the new Chief Executive takes up the post, arrangements are being put in place to ensure the continued smooth running of the authority following the decision by interim Chief Executive Simon Stevens to resign from the position.

Councillor Graves added: “Everyone continues to work incredibly hard across the authority and we remain a well-organised council, with plans in place to deliver our objectives.”