Councillor Martin Murray has stepped down as Leader of the Council and Councillor Coles, who was previously the council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, becomes Acting Leader of the Council with immediate effect.
Councillor Sean Bagguley, Cabinet member for Finance and Resources, has become Acting Deputy Leader of the Council.
Councillor Hayley Coles added:
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.”
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 Coles will retain her cabinet responsibilities.
Councillor Murray will continue to represent Cannock Town as a Reform UK member.
Formal selection of Leader and Deputy Leader of the Council will be held at a meeting of Full Council on 10 December 2026.
