Smith steps up to top Warrington post

Sarah Smith, currently executive director of health and social care at Knowsley Council, is set to replace interim chief executive Steve Park in early 2026, subject to full council approval on 1 December.

Steve Park will remain in the interim chief executive role until Smith starts.

Smith has worked in local government since 2008 and has been at Knowsley Council since 2019.

Smith’s selection follows interviews conducted by the local authority’s chief officer appointment committee last Friday.

Cllr Hans Mundry, Leader of Warrington Council, said: “This is an important appointment for Warrington.

“We face a number of challenges ahead in terms of managing our budget and delivering on our improvement and recovery plan, and Sarah has the vision and determination to take the council forward.

“Sarah brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record in public service leadership. We are confident she will provide the stability needed to help guide us into the future.

“Throughout the recruitment process, her commitment to work hard for Warrington’s residents and communities really shone through, and I look forward to working with her.”

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Outgoing Steve Park became the council’s interim chief executive in July following the departure of Steven Broomhead.

Sarah Smith will face the persistent concerns of the council’s “precarious” financial position, as noted in the government’s best value inspection published in May 2025.

Warrington Council failed the inspection, which was triggered the year before due to worries over a £1.9bn debt pile.