The Chief Executive of North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) has announced her resignation from the position - moving on to new challenge and saying: "It has not been an easy decision".

Bev Smith, who joined NWLDC in 2017, has led the authority through significant change internally and externally.

Under her leadership, the council has achieved Investors in People status and made the move into modern, flexible working arrangements, with most staff working from home and a downsizing of office space.

She has led the council's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as overseeing large scale projects, including the building of council homes for the first time in three decades, a new multi-million pound leisure centre and a new indoor market in Coalville.

Bev said: "This has not been an easy decision.

"But after 33 years in public service with 25 years in local government it is now time for me to take a new direction and use my skills and experience to take on different challenges."

During her time as NWLDC Chief Executive, Bev has taken on additional advisory and board level roles, including Chair of the Leicestershire and Rutland Sports Partnership, Board Director of the East Midlands Development Corporation and Governor at King Edward VII college in Coalville, as well as proudly supporting local charity Hospice Hope in its plans to build a new facility.

Bev also has an active role with the Local Government Association, as a peer reviewer – assisting other councils to improve their performance, culture and services.

"I have worked with some wonderful people during my time at North West Leicestershire, and am leaving at a time of great opportunity – both for the council itself and for the district as a whole," Bev added.

"I would like to thank everyone for their support. It has been a pleasure working with such a variety of people who all care so much about their community."

Councillor Richard Blunt, Leader of NWLDC, said: "Working with Bev over the last five years has been an absolute pleasure. She is an exceptional leader of people and has the fantastic ability to support people through change and challenge with her personable and trustworthy character.

"Bev has been a great advisor to me and the other members of the council, and it goes without saying that she will be missed by everyone at NWLDC.

"She is moving on to some exciting new things and we wish her all the very best."

Bev will leave the NWLDC on 30 April 2022.

The council is looking to have a new Chief Executive in place as soon as possible after this date.