A photograph of Anne Coyle. She has dark brown hair and is wearing a blue jacket.

Anne Coyle has been welcomed as Nottinghamshire County Council's new Executive Director for Children and Families.

Anne brings more than 30 years of experience in working across all aspects of children’s services.  Anne began her career working in children’s homes in the voluntary and public sector in the southwest before training as a qualified social worker. Since then, she has enjoyed a successful career across a variety of local authorities leading the delivery of improved outcomes for children and families through multi-agency partnerships.

As an experienced Director of Children’s Services, Anne has worked across the country including with the City of York and Oxfordshire County Council. Anne joins us from the Isles of Scilly where she has been as the interim Director of People (Children and Adults Services).

A qualified social worker, Anne’s focus has always been on ensuring that the voices of children, families, and communities are at the heart of service delivery and great partnerships.

Anne Coyle said: "I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Nottinghamshire County Council. This is a county with a strong sense of community and a clear ambition for its children and young people.

“I’m looking forward to working alongside elected members, dedicated colleagues, partners, and families to build on the great work already underway to improve SEND services and to strengthen the foundations to improve outcomes for children and young people in Nottinghamshire.

“It is a privilege for me to serve the people of Nottinghamshire, a beautiful heartwarming county where my now adult children spent a significant amount of their childhood with their relatives. I know I have big shoes to fill in taking over from Colin and I promise that I will give it my all”.

Councillor Rory Green, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said:

“The interview panel unanimously appointed Anne Coyle following careful consideration. Anne stood out during the process, impressing us with her track record - particularly her leadership in achieving Outstanding’ Ofsted rated children’s services. Her vision and honesty give us confidence that, under her stewardship, our services can also reach that standard.


"Councillor Hana John and I are excited to work with Anne. We’re grateful to the recruitment officers for attracting such high-calibre candidates, and I’d like to thank everyone involved, especially the other applicants who gave it their all”.

Councillor John, Cabinet Member for Education and SEND, said:

“I am excited to welcome Anne to the county council. Since Cllr Green and I took office, we have witnessed significant transformation within the department, and filling this pivotal role at this early stage plays an essential part in our plans, particularly to improve outcomes for children and young people with special educational needs and their families.

“The hundreds of applicants demonstrate that the council’s commitment to delivering strong, effective and consistent services is gaining recognition.

“Anne stood out for her results in achieving outstanding services and enhancing the lives of communities she has served”.

Anne will start her new role in September.