ESSEX County Council’s former Chief Executive has been awarded a CBE in the King’s Birthday Honours 2025.

Gavin retired from Essex County Council earlier this year after nine years as Chief Executive. He previously served as Chief Executive at Swindon for 10 years.

This award recognises his dedication, contribution and leadership to the local government community over the course of his career.

Leader of Essex County Council, Councillor Kevin Bentley said: “We are very pleased for our former colleague and friend Gavin Jones on being awarded a CBE.

“Gavin was an outstanding Chief Executive and public servant leader who worked incredibly hard to make a real difference to communities in Essex and beyond.

“We send our warmest congratulations to Gavin on this fantastic achievement.”

On retiring Gavin left a successful legacy in Essex. Under his leadership, the council, among other things:

achieved an Outstanding rating for its children’s services
introduced major infrastructure to the county, including the Chelmsford North rail station
tackled inequality through the opening of community supermarkets
encouraged new investment and businesses in some of the county’s most deprived areas
continued a strong track record of financial management.
Gavin has also served as a government-appointed lead commissioner for other councils.