The West Northamptonshire Council met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to make key appointments and adjust political representation on committees. The council confirmed Martin Henry as the permanent Chief Executive Officer and Head of Paid Service, and James Smith as the permanent Chief Finance Officer (Section 151 Officer). Additionally, the council agreed to changes in the allocation of committee seats to reflect shifts in political group membership.

Appointments of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Finance Officer

The council formally appointed Martin Henry as the permanent Chief Executive Officer and Head of Paid Service, and James Smith as the permanent Chief Finance Officer (Section 151 Officer). These appointments were proposed by Councillor Charlie Hastie, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, and seconded by Councillor Phil Bignall.

Councillor Hastie highlighted that these were significant appointments carrying substantial statutory responsibilities, crucial for the council's governance, leadership, and financial stewardship. He noted that Martin Henry had served as interim Chief Executive since November 2025 and had demonstrated his capability to lead the organisation through a demanding period. Mr Henry has over three decades of local government experience, including more than 20 years as a Chief Finance Officer.

James Smith, a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years of public sector experience, was recommended for the Chief Finance Officer role. He has been with West Northamptonshire Council since its inception and served as Deputy Section 151 Officer, playing a key role in establishing the council's financial management arrangements.

Councillor Cecile Irving-Swift spoke in support, drawing on her long experience as a councillor and former chair of the audit committee. She described both Martin Henry and James Smith as dedicated officers whose advice had been essential during challenging times, particularly in delivering balanced budgets. Councillor Sally Keeble, Leader of the Labour Group, also expressed pleasure in supporting the appointments, noting Martin Henry's prize and quite unusual combination of skills including financial acumen and a deep understanding of service delivery and commitment to West Northamptonshire. She emphasised the critical role of the Section 151 Officer, who can call a halt to everything, literally. Councillor Jonathan Harris, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, praised Martin Henry's grasp of the detail and integrity, stating he understands the key concept of service. He also commended James Smith's commitment and experience.

Both appointments were put to separate votes and were carried.

Changes to Political Balance and Committee Places

The council also agreed to changes in the allocation of committee seats to reflect a shift in the political balance of the council. Councillor Charlie Hastie introduced the report, explaining that these changes were necessary due to Councillor Joanne Blythe leaving the Independent Group and Councillor Cameron Emery leaving the Reform UK Group to form a new Restore Britain group.

The report detailed the previous and new allocation of seats across various committees, showing a slight reduction in seats for the Reform UK Group and a redistribution to accommodate the new Restore Britain group. Councillor Hastie stressed that these decisions, while procedural, were vital for ensuring committees remained fair, proportionate and legally compliant, accurately reflecting the council's current makeup and meeting statutory obligations under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.

The council agreed to note the changes, approve the resulting allocation of committee seats, and designate the fourth largest opposition group, which will alternate annually between the Independent Group and the Restore Britain Group. Additionally, Councillor Caroline Phillips was appointed as Vice-Chair of the Place and Resources Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Councillor Phil Bignall seconded the proposal, and with no further speakers, the proposal was carried by vote.

Chairman's Announcements

Councillor Alison Eastwood, Chairman of the Council, began the meeting by announcing the sad passing of former councillor Terry Guilford, who served as a Conservative councillor for Daventry West from 2021 to 2025. She remembered him as an active member of several committees, including the Licensing Committee and the Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee, and a dedicated member of the Rugby and Daventry Crematorium Joint Committee. Councillor Eastwood also highlighted his deep commitment to his community in Daventry, his volunteer work in grassroots football, and his role coaching at Drayton Grange Football Club.

Councillor Eastwood also announced the passing of Vicky Compton, a customer services colleague, after a battle with cancer. She detailed Vicky's career progression from an apprentice at Northampton Borough Council in 2009 to a team leader, noting her passion for helping others, her extensive knowledge, and her invaluable support to colleagues.

A minute's silence was observed in memory of both former Councillor Guilford and Vicky Compton.