Assistant director stepping up to interim director of children’s services in West Northamptonshire

17 December 2021

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Kiernan as Interim Director of Children’s’ Services (DCS).

This appointment follows the recent announcement that the current DCS, Cathi Hadley, will be leaving in the new year to pursue a new role closer to her home.

Chris who is currently Interim Assistant Director for Children’s Services for WNC will assume the role until a permanent director is appointed.

Chris has extensive experience of leading Children’s Services formerly as Director of Children’s Services for London Borough of Waltham Forest, as well as delivering children’s services improvement for London Boroughs and large county councils.

Cllr Fiona Baker, WNC’s Cabinet Member for children, families, and education, said: “I have worked closely with Chris since he started in May this year and he has made significant progress with building positive relationships with schools and head teachers whilst working to improve our education services.

“He’s also been a key contributor to the upward trend of improvements being achieved under Cathi’s leadership.

“I know Chris has a firm grasp on the challenges ahead and he will be able to provide the continuity and stability that this service requires and which the young people in this area deserve.

“I have every confidence in Chris to lead the team forward as Interim DCS and am looking forward to working with him to deliver a continued improvement of services for children and young people in West Northamptonshire."

North and West Northamptonshire Councils agreed last month to replace the current single Director of Children’s’ Services post, with a dedicated post for each council.