Praise aplenty for Wandsworth’s chief executive after resignation announcement

By Charlotte Lillywhite, Local Democracy Reporter

The boss of Richmond and Wandsworth councils is stepping down for family reasons, it has been announced.

Mike Jackson is leaving the chief executive role he holds for both councils, which have a shared staffing arrangement, in autumn.

Mr Jackson confirmed he is resigning from the role, which he has held since October 2022, due to ‘personal family reasons’.

He said it had been an honour to serve Wandsworth’s diverse communities at such a ‘critical time’, while it had been rewarding to work towards a ‘better, fairer future’ alongside dedicated people in Richmond.

Mr Jackson added: “The role and work for both boroughs is really rewarding – they are thriving places with huge potential. The council teams serving both Richmond and Wandsworth are brilliant and I’m confident that both councils will continue to go from strength to strength and deliver exceptional services to residents.”

The leaders of both councils praised Mr Jackson for the work he has led as chief executive, including helping many residents struggling more than ever before with the cost-of-living crisis, overseeing major investment in infrastructure and delivering environmental projects.

Lib Dem Richmond council leader Gareth Roberts added: “Mike has brought steady and experienced leadership to the council. The world is a fast-changing place – our residents are experiencing greater challenges and uncertainties than ever before, as is the council.

“With Mike at the helm, we have made real progress in developing new and innovative ways for Richmond to tackle some of the intrinsic challenges our society faces, and for how we approach our local priorities –  particularly future of Richmond town centre and building resilience in the face of the climate emergency. I want to thank Mike for all he has done and the legacy he will leave, and wish him all the best.”

Simon Hogg, Labour leader of Wandsworth council, said: “Under Mike Jackson’s leadership, we have maintained the lowest council tax and crime rate in inner London and doubled our investment in roads and pavements.

“Mike has been crucial in supporting the most vulnerable, focusing on delivering 1,000 new council homes, and leading our environmental initiatives. His efforts were pivotal in our selection as the London Borough of Culture 2025, promising a transformative year ahead.

“I know I echo the feelings of colleagues across the council as well as partners and residents in being grateful to Mike for all of his efforts.”

Arrangements for Mr Jackson’s successor will be made in due course.

Pictured top: Mike Jackson (Picture: Wandsworth council)