Councillor Hayley Coles has become Acting Leader of Staffordshire County Council with immediate effect from 27 October 2026. She replaces Councillor Martin Murray, who has stepped down from the role.
Councillor Coles was previously the council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture. She will retain her cabinet responsibilities alongside her new role as Acting Leader.
Councillor Sean Bagguley, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, has become Acting Deputy Leader of the Council.
Councillor Coles's priorities
In a statement, Councillor Coles said: "I feel privileged to have been trusted to lead the council into this new chapter. My focus now is to drive forward the delivery of our plans for the county. I intend to advocate strongly for our residents and businesses, ensure people get effective and efficient council services and champion Staffordshire as the wonderful county it is. I want to thank Councillor Murray for his leadership thus far and the passion he has shown."
Murray's departure
Councillor Martin Murray said: "It has been a huge privilege to be Leader of this council, and I am proud of the achievements we have delivered so far. It is now time for the Cabinet to come together to focus on delivering even greater success for this amazing county and the people and communities we serve."
Councillor Murray will continue to represent Cannock Town as a Reform UK member.
Formal selection
The formal selection of Leader and Deputy Leader of the Council will be held at a meeting of Full Council on 10 December 2026.