ed whiting leeds city council

Ed Whiting OBE is poised to become the new permanent chief executive of Leeds City Council, with his official endorsement set for November 13th. Bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for social equity, Ed’s leadership is anticipated to usher in a transformative period for Leeds, ensuring economic growth resonates with the community’s needs.

Who is set to be the new permanent chief executive of Leeds City Council?

Ed Whiting OBE is set to be the new permanent chief executive of Leeds City Council, expected to be officially endorsed on November 13th. With a deep connection to Leeds and a track record of strategic planning and inclusive leadership, Ed Whiting’s appointment heralds a new era for the council’s future growth and social equity.


Leeds City Council is on the cusp of welcoming a new era of leadership with the anticipated appointment of Ed Whiting OBE as its new permanent chief executive. After a comprehensive search for the ideal candidate, the full council is poised to officially endorse Ed’s nomination at the Civic Hall gathering on November 13th.

A Familiar Face with a Vision for Growth

Ed Whiting’s connection to Leeds runs deep, nurtured by years of personal and professional experiences within the city’s thriving environment. Currently steering economic growth partnerships as Director of Cities and Local Growth in the Department for Business and Trade and Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Ed’s profound understanding of Leeds’s potential sets the stage for an innovative leadership approach.

Strategic Planning and Inclusive Leadership

With an impressive portfolio, including key positions in HM Treasury and 10 Downing Street, Ed’s strategic acumen is well-proven. His tenure as Director of Strategy for Wellcome Trust highlighted his capacity to build global partnerships and foster an inclusive workplace culture. This comprehensive background equips Ed to navigate Leeds City Council towards a future where economic growth and social equity coexist.

A Commitment to Leeds’s Residents

The prospect of Ed Whiting stepping into this role has been met with enthusiasm from council leaders. Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, notes Ed’s alignment with the city’s ethos and his vision for tackling local challenges. With an emphasis on reducing inequality and upholding the quality of public services, Ed’s leadership promises a continued commitment to the well-being of all Leeds residents.

The transition period will see Mariana Pexton maintain her role as interim chief executive, ensuring a seamless handover until Ed’s expected early arrival next year. This appointment represents a new chapter for Leeds, building on the legacy of Tom Riordan CBE’s impactful 14-year tenure.

Visit Leeds City Council’s Website for More Details

For more information, please contact the Leeds City Council communications and marketing team at communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk or call 0113 378 6007.


  • Ed Whiting OBE is set to be officially endorsed as the new permanent chief executive of Leeds City Council on November 13th.
  • He has a deep connection to Leeds and a proven track record in strategic planning and inclusive leadership.
  • Ed is currently the Director of Cities and Local Growth in the Department for Business and Trade and the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government.
  • His leadership is anticipated to focus on reducing inequality and enhancing public services for all Leeds residents.
  • The transition will be managed by interim chief executive Mariana Pexton until Ed’s arrival early next year, succeeding Tom Riordan CBE.

By george