A former social worker has been appointed as North Yorkshire Council’s new corporate director for children and young people.
El Mayhew, currently director of children and families at Hertfordshire County Council, will take up her new role early in the new year.
She succeeds Sir Stuart Carlton, who is stepping down after eight years leading North Yorkshire’s children’s services.
North Yorkshire’s children and young people’s service has received outstanding ratings from Ofsted in both of its most recent inspections.
El Mayhew has played a key role in Hertfordshire’s own journey to achieve an outstanding Ofsted judgement.
She brings more than 25 years’ experience in children’s services, having begun her career supporting children with additional needs and those living in care before qualifying as a social worker.
Over the years, she has held senior leadership positions across several local authorities, including large and rural counties similar to North Yorkshire,
Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, executive member for education, learning and skills, said: “El brings with her valuable experience and passion to lead children’s services and is deeply committed to improving outcomes for children, young people and families.
“North Yorkshire is England’s largest county and a beautiful, vibrant place to live and work. We welcome El and are confident she will help deliver on our ambitions for every child and young person to have the very best start in life.”
Speaking ahead of her move, El Mayhew said: “I’m excited by the opportunities ahead to build on strong partnerships and practice and to unlock even better ways of tackling inequality and delivering great outcomes for children and young people.
“I’m looking forward to listening to what children and young people say they need to thrive, and working closely with teams, communities, schools and partners to help shape our priorities in North Yorkshire.
“I want North Yorkshire to be the best place for children, families and young people to live and grow up.”
Cllr Janet Sanderson, executive member for children and families, added: “I would like to congratulate El on her appointment following a rigorous recruitment process. I look forward to working closely with her to ensure that a service already rated ‘outstanding’ continues to grow and excel even further.”
North Yorkshire Council’s chief executive Richard Flinton said: “We are delighted to welcome El to North Yorkshire Council. She brings extensive knowledge and experience, and a clear understanding of the continued work needed to deliver quality services for children and young people.”
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