The chief executive of Staffordshire CC is to step down after almost eight years in the role.
John Henderson joined the council in May 2015 and will remain in post until the arrival of a successor.
Prior to his arrival in Staffordshire, Mr Henderson was a Major General commanding the British Forces in Germany and was appointed Companion of the Order of the Bath in the 2014 New Year Honours.
He said: ‘It has been the greatest privilege to lead the officers and staff of Staffordshire CC for the past eight years.
‘Working for our residents to improve the quality of the services we provide for them has been challenging and rewarding - never more so than during the Covid pandemic - when I drew inspiration from so many colleagues’ efforts.’
Council leader Alan White added: ‘Through John’s calm and confident leadership - not least through the pandemic - the council has remained absolutely focused on making a difference for people and businesses in Staffordshire.
‘He will be a big loss to Staffordshire, but I am hugely grateful that John has agreed to remain in post until his successor arrives.’