One of Leicester’s deputy city mayor has resigned from Sir Peter Soulsby’s top team. Labour councillor Sarah Russell said in a letter to the city mayor that she will leaving her position as lead member for social care, health and community on Leicester City Council safety next month.
She will be staying on as one of two councillors for Westcotes ward, however. Coun Russell, who posted her resignation letter on LinkedIn, said she was excited but sad about her decision, adding she had not taken it “lightly”.
She added she was giving up the role for a new job managing Leicester East MP Liz Kendall’s office. Coun Russell has been a member of Sir Peter’s top team in various positions since 2011.
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She said in the letter: “Thank you for the opportunity to be part of your leadership team over the last 13+ years. In 2011 I could not have imagined the opportunities and challenges we have faced – or the ways in which you have allowed me to develop my own roles. You have consistently encouraged me to question, to challenge, to explore new ideas, to grow my own skills and learn more about Leicester and its history than I knew was possible; that generosity is one of the main reasons I have been able to serve in this role for so long.
“The decision to apply for a different role outside of the council was not one I took lightly. The possibilities offered by a new government, particularly in health and children’s services are ones I would have very much liked to get my teeth into, to make the most for our residents.
Liz Kendall
“My new role manging Liz Kendall MP’s office is an exciting opportunity that builds on and develops my skills further whilst still focussing on getting the most for our residents. I will continue to serve as a ward councillor in my home of Westcotes and look forward to being able to continue to support your team from the back benches.”
Coun Russell said she will remain in her current deputy city mayor role until Friday, February 7 and will support the authority’s adult social care team until then. She added that she will do whatever she can to “ensure a smooth and easy transition” for Sir Peter and his team.
The announcement was met with huge praise from Coun Russell’s council colleagues and other local bodies she had worked for in her role. One said: “You will be missed beyond comprehension, your drive and dedication to Leicester at the [local authority] is second to none. Congratulations on your new role, I only hope we get someone half as good.”
A second said: “You leave a great legacy of work that you can be proud of and there is no doubt you’ll do wonderful in the new role. Congratulations.”