Debbie Warren, Chief Executive of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, has announced she will be retiring in 2026 following over 45 years at the council and nine years as Chief Executive.
Debbie has been fundamental to the council’s success of balancing its books to allow it to keep investing in its communities. Having worked through 12 different elections and with a hugely diverse range of elected members and officers, Debbie has been a part of and led significant progress across the Royal Borough of Greenwich, supporting the healthy and happy lives of hundreds of thousands of residents.
During her tenure as Chief Executive, a post she started in 2018, she has overseen key initiatives including guiding the council through the COVID-19 pandemic; keeping finances balanced in an incredibly challenged financial environment; seen services awarded ‘outstanding’ ratings for performance for residents; and led the council through numerous election cycles including local and national elections.
Debbie will continue as Chief Executive until a new Chief Executive is appointed. Debbie will also continue her post as a Commissioner for the Borough of Croydon. The search for a new Chief Executive Officer goes live today, Thursday 21 May 2026.
Debbie said: “Having started my career in the finance team at Greenwich in 1980, and leading the council as Chief Executive since 2018, I have decided it is the right time to pass the baton onto someone else.
“I am incredibly grateful to have spent my career working to deliver real impact to our diverse and wonderful communities across the Royal Borough of Greenwich. It is a wonderful place to work and I know will continue in its success for residents with a new Chief Executive at the helm.”
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, said: “Debbie has been an exceptional leader for the council and for all residents, businesses and partners across the Royal Borough of Greenwich. She has guided the council through significant periods of change and challenge, including managing funding pressures alongside changing and rising need for services.
“Debbie has always put the people of the borough first, and has had a deep positive impact on the borough which will be felt by our communities for many years to come.
“On behalf of the council and the Royal Borough of Greenwich, thank you so much for everything you have brought to the people of Greenwich and we wish you every happiness for your future.”