Chief executive of Cheshire West and Chester Steve Robinson has decided to leave the council after eight years in the role.

Steve Robinson joined the authority in 2008, the year before its inception, leading the organisation to the Best Achieving Council award as well as overseeing one of the highest Ofsted ratings in the country.

He will leave his post in June.

Mr Robinson said: “West Cheshire is a fantastic place and my time has provided me with some of the most memorable and rewarding years of my career. I am proud to have served the residents of this borough and would like to thank staff, members, partners and residents for their support over the last eight years.

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“The council has agreed a clear four-year plan which sets out a strong, sustainable vision for the future. We have fantastic, committed employees who will work with the administration to deliver this vision.

“This year marks 41 years of local government service for me. The career I have had so far takes a great deal of sacrifice. Not just personal sacrifice, but also sacrifice from my family. I feel that now is the time to repay them for their support.

“In the short term, I plan to spend some quality time with my wife who retired last year, my parents and my family. I intend to do other things in the future but in a role that allows me to ensure I can better carry out my personal responsibilities.”

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Councillor Samantha Dixon, Labour leader of the council, said: “I would like to thank Steve for his continued hard work and dedication to this wonderful borough.

“He has overseen significant transformation of the council and leaves us in a very strong position. Being awarded the Best Achieving Council award and attaining one of the highest Ofsted ratings in the country, including outstanding for leadership, means Steve leaves the authority at the top of his game.

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“Steve has provided support to me as the new leader and to the new administration. Even though he is departing, the council retains a strong leadership team and a committed workforce and we will work relentlessly towards achieving the outcomes that residents have told us are a priority.”

The council’s staffing committee will meet in the coming weeks to begin the recruitment process for Mr Robinson’s replacement.