Kirklees Together

In her first act as Leader of Kirklees Council, Councillor Sarah Wood (Reform UK) has appointed a new Cabinet to lead the authority.

The Cabinet is the council’s main decision-making body, made up of councillors appointed by the Leader to oversee major service areas and make decisions on the council’s priorities, policies and spending.

The appointments mark the beginning of the new administration’s programme, with Cabinet Members taking responsibility for services that affect the lives of people across Kirklees.

Each Cabinet Member is responsible for a portfolio covering some of the council’s most important responsibilities, including finance, community safety, children’s services, adult social care, housing and highways.

Leader of Kirklees Council, Councillor Sarah Wood, said:

“It was unfortunate we have been required to wait for this moment, which has caused delays to some council governance processes. But we are here now and I’m delighted to appoint a Cabinet that brings together people with real expertise, practical experience and a shared commitment to serving the people of Kirklees.

“Every Cabinet Member brings valuable knowledge and professional experience to their portfolio. That means better-informed decision-making, stronger leadership and a clear focus on delivering high-quality services for our residents.

“Just as importantly, they are a dedicated team who are ready to get to work from day one. Together, we’ll provide the leadership needed to deliver on the commitments we’ve made to local people.

“We promised change in Kirklees, and we’re wasting no time in getting started. Our administration will be guided by clear principles: putting Kirklees citizens first, promoting civic pride and patriotism, keeping our communities safe, and ensuring the council lives within its means through responsible financial management.

“We’re determined to build a council that residents can trust, that delivers excellent services and is something Kirklees can be proud of.”

The Cabinet begins its work immediately, working with council officers and partners to review existing priorities and develop the administration’s programme for the months ahead. Further announcements on Cabinet priorities will follow shortly.

Appointments in full:

Name	Portfolio
Cllr Sarah Wood	Leader
Cllr Mark Smith	Deputy Leader
Cllr Gill Floyd	Children’s Services (Statutory responsibility for Children)
Cllr Rob Butler	Education and SEND
Cllr Michael Simmons	Adults Social Care and Public Health Communities
Cllr Philip James	Housing and Physical Communities
Cllr Pip Harvey	Place, Culture and Volunteering
Cllr John Hardie	Regeneration, Highways and Transport
Cllr Simon Brophy	Strategic Finance and Local Government Efficiency