Pat Flaherty

As the Chief Executive of the Council, Pat is Head of Paid Service and manages the day-to-day running of the council on behalf of our Councillors. 

Pat leads our staff to achieve our three priority outcomes, so that everyone in Staffordshire will:

1.   Have access to more good jobs and share the benefits of economic growth;

2.   Live in thriving and sustainable communities;

3.   Be healthier and independent for longer.

What experience does he have?

Pat Flaherty joined us as Chief Executive in July 2023, continuing his long career in local government. His last appointment was that of Chief Executive at the London Borough of Harrow, and previously he served as Chief Executive of Somerset County Council for almost a decade. He has held leadership roles in regeneration, transport, and health. 

Pat was born and raised in Staffordshire and has degrees from Bolton and Salford universities. He is an honorary member of the Faculty of Public Health for his contribution to public health work and is a director of a multi-academy education trust. 

He has previously worked at Newcastle Borough Council and Stafford Borough Council, and at Staffordshire County Council as a transport planner.

Direct reports

Pat’s direct reports are: 

• Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Corporate Services – John Tradewell
• Director of Economy, Infrastructure and Skills – Darryl Eyers
• Director of Health and Care – Dr Richard Harling
• Director of Children and Families – Neelam Bhardwaja
• Director of Finance – Rob Salmon