THE chief executive of Hampshire County Council has announced that he will stand down later this year after eight years at the helm.

Andrew Smith OBE, who was appointed in 2007 following a national search for a candidate, has announced today that he will stand down from the role later this year.

His appointment as the head of the authority coincided with the economic downturn and he has been credited with a significant transformation of the local authority.

As well as his role as chief executive, he has been an advisor to the Local Government Association and Central Government on property, procurement, efficiency and capital expenditure.

In 2006, he was awarded an OBE for his services to Local Government.

Speaking about his decision to stand down, Mr Smith said: “It has been a real and true privilege to lead the county council and to work with such committed staff and elected members for the wider benefit of the people who live in Hampshire.

“There are few organisations that can match the county council, its contribution or in particular, the outcomes achieved for so many people on a daily basis. The commitment of our staff remains outstanding.

“The challenges faced in public services, between now and end of the decade, make it a good time for the county council to look to the future and the opportunities that will be there towards the end of the decade and beyond.

“It is for this reason that I have chosen to announce my departure at this time – with the benefit of knowing that Hampshire remains one of the best performing councils in the country.”

Council leader, Councillor Roy Perry, paid tribute to the outgoing chief executive, saying: “It is with much regret that we accept Andrew’s wish to stand down as chief executive. Andrew has led the county council in an exemplary manner through the most difficult times.

“He has also made an outstanding contribution to Hampshire as a place, and to the organisation that he has led. His commitment to public services has been second to none. We owe much to his vision and his contribution.

“He will be long remembered for his commitment to the staff, the constant pursuit of improving the quality of public services, and his drive and commitment that are not easily matched.”

The recruitment process to find a new chief executive will begin shortly.