New Chief Executive appointed for Cumberland Council

A new Chief Executive has been appointed to lead Cumberland Council.

Jo Atkinson, currently Cumberland Council's Director of Corporate and Transformation Services and Deputy Chief Executive, will officially take up the role of Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service from 1 January 2027.

Jo's appointment follows an extensive recruitment process set in place following the announcement that Andrew Seekings, the council’s current Chief Executive, was retiring at the end of December 2026.

Jo’s appointment was formally confirmed at a meeting of Cumberland Council today (30 September 2026).

Jo brings more than 25 years of experience in public service and has played a key leadership role in the creation and development of Cumberland Council. She has helped lead the authority through significant organisational change, workforce reform and financial transformation, including the development of the council's operating model, governance arrangements and long-term approach to financial sustainability.

Throughout her career, Jo has held senior leadership positions at Cumberland Council, Cumbria County Council and other local authorities across the North East.

She has also held roles within the North East police force, the National Probation Service and His Majesty's Prison Service. Her experience spans social care, public protection, commissioning, transformation, organisational change and corporate leadership, underpinned by a longstanding commitment to public service and improving outcomes for residents, communities and places.

Jo said:

“It is a real privilege to have the opportunity to serve as Chief Executive of Cumberland Council. Cumberland has been my home for more than ten years and is a place that means a great deal to me and my family.

“My priority is simple: to make a positive difference for the people and communities we serve, ensuring the council delivers high-quality services and creates opportunities for Cumberland to thrive.

“I would also like to thank Andrew Seekings for his leadership and for the support he has given me. He has made an important contribution to Cumberland Council, and I wish him all the very best for his retirement.

“Over the coming months, I am looking forward to meeting residents, community groups, businesses, partners and colleagues across Cumberland. Listening to people’s experiences and understanding what matters most to them will be important as we build on the progress already made and shape Cumberland’s future together.”

Leader of Cumberland Council, Councillor Mark Fryer, welcomed the appointment. He said:

"I am very pleased that Jo has been appointed as Chief Executive of Cumberland Council.

“Jo brings a wealth of experience, a proven track record of delivery and a deep understanding of both our organisation and the communities we serve. Having played a key role in Cumberland Council's journey since its creation, she has helped build the strong foundations on which we can continue to grow and improve.

“I look forward to working closely with Jo as we continue our focus on delivering high-quality services, supporting our communities and creating opportunities for residents, businesses and partners across Cumberland."