Alongside partners, he led Coventry through a Joint Targeted Area Inspection on Serious Youth Violence, published in May 2024, which recognised children were safer as a result of the work his team and partner organisations had done. 

Neil, a qualified social worker, has held a variety of roles across local government. In Stoke-on-Trent he will lead the city council’s Children and Families directorate – which includes education, children’s safeguarding and early help, and children in care.

He will build on a new strategic approach – focusing on early intervention, prevention and partnership work – which has begun to reduce the number of children in care in Stoke-on-Trent from historically high levels, ensuring more children can remain safely at home with their families. 

That work has been spearheaded by Simon White, the Interim Corporate Director of Children and Families. 

Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council said: “We had a strong field of candidates apply for the role – people who want to be part of supporting family life in the city. 

“We’re really pleased that Neil will be joining us. Work on our improvement journey within Children and Families has really stepped up a gear and with Neil’s proven track record he is well equipped to help continue the progress we have already made. 

“I’d also like to thank Simon White, who is leading the transformation of our children’s services. He will leave the directorate in a fantastic position for Neil to work from.” 

Neil Macdonald said: “I am delighted to be joining Stoke-on-Trent at this critical time. 

“The city faces long-standing and well-publicised challenges, but positive change is already happening thanks to a clear strategic approach and partnership working. 

“I look forward to building on this and working with families in Stoke-on-Trent to achieve the best possible outcomes for them and the children of this great city.”