King’s birthday honour for former Chief Executive

Harry Catherall, who was the Chief Executive of Blackburn with Darwen Council between 2012 and 2019, has received an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours.

With a public service career spanning almost 46 years, Harry has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to public service.

Harry is currently the Chief Executive of Tameside Council, where he began his public sector career as a 16 year old apprentice.

He joined Blackburn with Darwen Council in 1997 to help set up the unitary council, playing a leading role in social services. He was with the Council for 22 years, the last seven as our Chief Executive.

Former Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Mohammed Khan CBE, said: 

Harry spent more time here than at any other council and a proud moment for us both was winning the coveted Council of the Year award in 2018.

He is well known for expecting high standards across all services and for his determination to improve communities. He ensured the success of major projects that directly benefitted the health and wellbeing of residents and took a special interest in children and adult social care, education, and the cathedral quarter development.

It’s great to see national recognition for his humble dedication and the impact he’s made over the years.

Harry left Blackburn with Darwen with the intention to retire, after 40 years of public service. However, through the Local Government Association, Harry was invited to provide interim Chief Executive support at St Helens Council, which was followed by a similar opportunity at Oldham Council. Three years later, Harry moved to Tameside Council as their Chief Executive.