Susan Parsonage

Susan has more than 25 years’ experience in local government, working in councils across England. She is Chief Executive of Wokingham Borough Council, delivering the vision and ambitions for a unitary council. Before taking up her current position previous roles included Chief Executive of Lancaster City Council and a Director at the London Borough of Ealing.

Susan is passionate about public services and delivering the very best outcomes for residents and communities and a proponent of a council’s place shaping role. She focuses on collaborative working with partners, key stakeholders and councillors in ensuring a great place for everyone to thrive. Also focussing on getting fundamentals right and innovation in delivery.

Her approach has seen Wokingham council judged as 2nd most productive council in England ( Impower index ) also adult services judged by CQC as in the top 10 in the country, whilst excelling in partnership working.

Susan serves as SOLACE deputy spokesperson for Children & Families, and has contributed to the national SEND debate.

In June of 2026, Susan was awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours in recognition of her outstanding service to local government.