States of Guernsey Chief Executive removed from post

Paul Whitfield has led the island's civil service for eight years. Credit: ITV Channel TV

The Chief Executive of the States of Guernsey has been removed from his post.

Paul Whitfield has led the island's civil service for eight years. During his tenure, Mr Whitfield oversaw the government's response to the coronavirus pandemic. In 2020 he was awarded an OBE for services to the Public Sector.

However, the island's Chief Minister said the Policy and Resources Committee "recognised the need for a change in senior leadership and have taken action to bring this about".

  • Deputy Charles Parkinson feels Paul Whitfield, who was made chief executive in 2013, is a "fall guy"

Guernsey's Chief Minister said Mr Whitfield had fulfilled his role with 'integrity, honesty, objectivity and impartiality'.

  • Guernsey's former Chief Minister Deputy Gavin St Pier says he is "not surprised" to see the departure of Paul Whitfield and that it is "very easy to pin all issues on the leadership of the civil service"

Mark De Garis will take over as interim Chief Executive for the time being.

Reflecting on his time in the role, Mr Whitfield said his tenure had been "hugely rewarding".