Council appoints new executive director of children’s services

Cheshire East Council has appointed a new executive director of children’s services, marking a significant step forward in the council’s commitment to enhancing the lives of young people across the borough.

Dawn Godfrey, who was previously strategic director children and families at Rutland County Council, will be taking up the role as permanent executive director of children’s services shortly. 

Dawn brings a wealth of experience to the role, with 26 years of dedicated local government service in children’s social care, Dawn has been instrumental in driving regional initiatives in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), Family Help, and workforce development across the East Midlands. 

Her career includes pivotal roles at Nottinghamshire County Council, where she oversaw child protection, looked-after children, and leaving care services. Dawn has led major transformation initiatives, including the Troubled Families Programme, and worked as an His Majesty’s Inspector for Ofsted, where she spearheaded inspections of local authorities and children's social care services to foster improvements. Most recently, she guided Rutland County Council to achieve a Good Ofsted rating and a Grade 1 SEND rating. 

Dawn said:

“I am thrilled to be joining Cheshire East as their permanent executive director children's services. I'm looking forward to being a part of the new corporate leadership team and I am determined to deliver excellent outcomes for children and families across Cheshire East." 

This appointment is part of the council’s ongoing senior management recruitment campaign. The council has also recently appointed Ashley Hughes as Executive Director of Resources and Section 151 Officer, Chris Allman as Director of Planning and Environment, Karen Grave as Director of People, and Dami Awobajo as Assistant Chief Executive.  

Theresa Leavy who has been the interim executive director of children’s services since September 2024 will leave the council in May following her successful appointment to the role of national director at the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service. 

Rob Polkinghorne, chief executive of Cheshire East Council, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Dawn to our team. Her proven track record and extensive experience makes her the right person to lead our children’s services. We are confident that under her leadership, we will continue to make significant strides in our improvement journey. 

“Congratulations to Theresa on her new role, we wish her all the best and are grateful for her leadership and support over the last seven months.” 

Pictured - Dawn Godfrey will be taking up the role as permanent executive director of children’s services shortly.