The chief executive of Redbridge Council has announced he will be stepping down after nine months in the job.

Adrian Loades was formally appointed the authority's “interim” boss after his predecessor, Claire Symonds, left the post in February.

In a LinkedIn post, he confirmed he will be departing at the end of January and it has since been confirmed he will be retiring.

He said it was the “right time” for him to leave, adding: “There is no drama here. It is a decision that I made some time ago.”

He wrote: “Redbridge is a great place, a great local authority and a great place to work, the commitment and creativity of colleagues are second to none.

“I will always be proud of the Covid response, the Ofsted outstandings, the integrated working between health and care and the outcomes delivered on a daily basis.”

He said the council “needs to go into the next few years with leaders who will be with it throughout the next stage of its journey”.

The announcement comes at a difficult time for Redbridge Council.

The town hall is currently predicting an annual overspend of £33m and is exploring various cuts to services, including support for vulnerable families and children’s centres.

By 2030, it could be facing a budget deficit of £91m if it does not change course.

Mr Loades had been the council’s third chief executive in as many years.

Ms Symonds, his predecessor, took over in 2022 from Lesley Seary, who was appointed to the role in 2021.

Chief executives are responsible for managing the council’s day-to-day operations, advising councillors and committees, and helping to implement new policies.

Mr Loades will also act as the returning officer for the Wanstead Park by-election later this month.

He said he had enjoyed his time “enormously,” adding: “I want to stress that this is very much my decision and one I haven’t made lightly.

“I have had the privilege of working with some great colleagues both within the council and externally, as well as councillors and local people who have had a singular focus on making Redbridge a safe and great place to live.”

Council leader Kam Rai said: “Adrian has done a tremendous job during his time in Redbridge.

“He has played an instrumental role in making our children’s services one of the best in the country whilst also ensuring that compassionate, excellent adult social care is provided to some of our most vulnerable neighbours.

“His decision to step into the breach of the interim chief executive position last year is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service.

“He really exemplifies all the essential qualities you need from a great senior leader. I wish Adrian the very best for his well-earned retirement.”

The council has said it is now recruiting for a new, full-time chief executive.