After eleven years of outstanding service, Stroud Town Council’s Chief Executive Officer (Town Clerk), Helen Bojaniwska, will be leaving the Council at the end of March 2026, marking the conclusion of a transformative and highly respected period of leadership.
Since her appointment, Helen has played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of both the Council and the town. One of her earliest and most enduring achievements was the implementation of Stroud’s first Neighbourhood Development Plan, creating a powerful framework that enables local people to influence development while safeguarding Stroud’s identity as a sustainable, vibrant and distinctive place to live.
Throughout her tenure, Helen oversaw the transfer of several important assets from Stroud District Council, including Stroud Cemetery, and led the successful acquisition of the Sub Rooms in 2019, securing its future as a vital community venue. She also delivered major structural improvements to Lansdown Hall, ensuring its continued use for generations to come.
In 2020, Helen provided calm and decisive leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic, steering the Council’s response and overseeing the creation of the Network of Stroud Hubs (NOSH). The hubs have since become a cornerstone of the Council’s community development work, offering support, connection and resilience across the town.
Prior to joining Stroud Town Council, Helen built a strong career in local government, including three years as Clerk to Dursley Town Council, bringing a wealth of experience to her role in Stroud.
More recently, Helen has overseen the Council’s move out of Thanet House and the development of plans for new offices at Locking Hill, designed to place the community at their heart. Alongside this, she has worked closely with officers to introduce new systems and processes that are modernising and strengthening the way the Council operates.
Reflecting on her time at Stroud Town Council, Helen said: “I have been privileged to work with many amazing councillors, colleagues and volunteers who are dedicated to serving the people of Stroud. I will take away many happy memories of their kindness and support.”
Having recently finalised a new five-year strategy to guide the Council’s work into the future, Helen feels the time is right to move on to new projects and challenges.
A spokesperson for Stroud Town Council said: “With Local Government Reorganisation on the horizon for Gloucestershire, Helen’s experience, insight and leadership will be invaluable, and we are confident she will continue to put them to excellent use. The Town Council thanks her for her dedication, generosity with her knowledge, and steady leadership over more than a decade of service to the town.”
