02.07.19
Chief executive of Anglesey County Council announces plans to retire
The chief executive of Anglesey County Council has announced his retirement and will step down from his role in October.
Dr Gwynne Jones said it had been a “difficult decision for me personally” but that the time was right to retire. Council leader Llinos Medi said he leaves the authority in a “far stronger position.”
Jones took on the role of Anglesey’s chief executive in June 2015 after spending three years as the council’s director of lifelong learning.
He has also held prominent roles at Gwynedd Council and worked as chief executive of Cynnal, the curriculum and ICT support agency which works across Anglesey and Gwynedd.
Councillor Medi commented: “During his time as our chief executive, Gwynne has shown real vision, drive and the utmost dedication.
“This has been reflected in the progress made in transforming key public services and the numerous positive reports published by our regulators in recent years.
“He will leave his post later this year with our best wishes and safe in the knowledge that this authority is in a far stronger position due to his efforts.”
She added: “I’m sure I speak on behalf of all our elected members as I wish him well in his retirement.”
Jones informed members of the appointment panel of his decision on Monday, and the county council said the search for his successor will begin shortly.
Dr Gwynne Jones said: “It has been a difficult decision for me personally, as I have enjoyed the role immensely. I was born and raised on Anglesey and it has been an honour to contribute to the lives of its residents. I have decided, however, that the time is now right for me to retire.”
“Local government still faces significant challenges in these times of austerity. I have been fortunate to have a team of hugely dedicated and professional staff around me; and elected members who have afforded me their trust and support.”
He added that despite challenging times, the council has achieved a great deal in recent years, and that he will look back at his time at the authority with fondness and pride.