Cornwall Council’s Chief Operating Officer Resigns From Six-Figure Role After Less Than A Year

Cornwall Council’s Chief Operating Officer, Alice Gunn, has resigned from her six-figure salary position after less than a year in the role. Ms. Gunn, who joined the council in January, cited personal family reasons for her departure, stating that relocating her family from Newcastle to Cornwall had not been possible and that long-term commuting was unsustainable.

Key Takeaways

• Alice Gunn, Cornwall Council’s Chief Operating Officer, has resigned.
• She held the six-figure salary post for less than a year.
• Personal family reasons and commuting difficulties were cited for her departure.
• The council will begin the process to find a long-term replacement.

Departure Amidst Family Relocation Challenges

Alice Gunn’s resignation comes as a surprise, given her relatively short tenure. The Chief Operating Officer, who also serves as the Section 151 officer (effectively the council’s chief finance officer), was appointed in January. The role, advertised with a salary of up to £165,000, was previously held by Tracie Langley, who retired last year.

In a statement to staff, Cornwall Council’s Chief Executive, Kate Kennally, expressed sadness at Ms. Gunn’s decision. “When Alice joined in January, the intention was to relocate to Cornwall with her family,” Ms. Kennally explained. “Unfortunately, for personal family reasons, that move hasn’t been possible and continuing to commute from Newcastle long-term isn’t sustainable.”

Ms. Kennally acknowledged Ms. Gunn’s significant contributions during her time with the council, stating she had “made such a huge difference to the senior team and to Cornwall.” Ms. Gunn remains committed to overseeing the ongoing comprehensive spending review and supporting efforts to deliver a balanced budget. The council will soon initiate the search for her permanent successor.

Previous Predecessor’s Controversial Appointment

Ms. Gunn’s departure also brings to light past controversies surrounding the appointment of her predecessor, Tracie Langley. Concerns were raised about a “lack of transparency” when Ms. Langley, then known as Tracie Evans, secured the senior position. It was later revealed that she had been found guilty of professional misconduct by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) in 2014. Ms. Langley had admitted to signing off company accounts using a co-director’s name and signature without their knowledge, resulting in a “severe reprimand” from CIPFA. Cornwall Council stated at the time that they were “fully aware” of her history prior to her appointment.

Sources

• Cornwall Council’s chief operating officer resigns six-figure salary post, Cornwall Live.
• Cornwall Council’s chief operating officer resigns six-figure salary post, planetradio.co.uk.