John Hooton is moving on after eight years in the role

John Hooton, the outgoing chief executive of Barnet Council — John Hooton is leaving his role as chief executive of Barnet Council – (Credit – Barnet Council)

The chief executive of Barnet Council will leave in June after eight years in the role.

John Hooton became chief executive in May 2016 and has been praised for leading the borough through the Covid-19 pandemic and negotiating a period of significant change in local government.

Subject to the approval of full council, Hooton will be replaced on an interim basis by deputy chief executive Cath Shaw while the council recruits his permanent successor.

He said: “It’s been an incredible privilege to be chief executive of Barnet Council. Together with an amazing team of council officers, we have achieved a huge amount over that time.

“I will really miss Barnet; it’s a great place with so many great people, but I am looking forward to taking a break! I know I leave the council in the safe hands of Cath Shaw. I’d also like to thank politicians from all parties who have supported me over the years.”

The outgoing chief executive was praised by political leaders from both of the major parties in the borough.

Labour’s council leader Barry Rawlings, said: “We are grateful to John for his years of sound stewardship of the organisation; not only for helping us to hit the ground running as a new administration but also for helping guide Barnet through the pandemic and managing the council through significant change over the last eight years while local government has had to do more with less resources.

He added: “We will miss John’s calm and effective leadership as Chief Executive. He leaves a proud legacy, and we wish him and his family all the best for the future.”

The leader of the opposition Conservative Group and former council leader Daniel Thomas, said: “John has done a great job as Chief Executive, and has led Barnet through considerable change. He leaves the borough with my very best wishes and thanks for all he has helped us achieve on behalf of Barnet’s residents. It’s been a pleasure to work with him.”

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