TRIBUTES have been paid to Neath Port Talbot’s departing chief executive Karen Jones this month following the announcement that she would resign from the role earlier this year.
Ms Jones, who took up the position in 2020, was the first female CEO in the local authority’s history and worked for the council in a number of roles for more than 20 years.
She is known for her work in leading the council through the height of the Covid pandemic as well as for the approval of the major Celtic Freeport development which is set for the Port Talbot area in the coming years.
Speaking at the authority’s latest full council meeting held on October 16, members across all parties paid tribute to the work carried out by Ms Jones during her time in the position.
Leader of the council, Steve Hunt said: “I know I speak for those here today and the many officers, workforce, and councillors who have previously worked with Karen in saying we are grateful for your service and your unwavering dedication to all our communities in Neath Port Talbot. You leave with our best wishes and deepest appreciation.”
Councillor Wayne Carpenter added: “I wish you a very long, happy and healthy retirement, but I have a feeling it’s going to be more re-hirement than retirement because you still have so much to give.”
Speaking at her last meeting, Karen Jones said: “I would like to thank all members of the council for your support and friendship. I wish you every success in the remainder of this term of office and I know the council will be in good hands as my successor Frances O’Brien takes up the role.”
Karen Jones will now end her tenure as CEO of Neath Port Talbot Council in November of 2024 before taking up a new role with The Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru. The chief executive post will then be taken up by Frances O’Brien, who previously worked as Monmouthshire County Council’s chief officer for communities and place.
