Dr Lorraine O'Donnell

Lorraine took up the post of Chief Executive of Bradford City Council on 16 October 2023 following three and a half years as Chief Executive of Cheshire East Council, a large unitary in the northwest. Lorraine has spent almost 30 years in local government at senior management level, including 6 years as Chief Executive, and believes passionately in the ability of local sector to improve lives.

She finds working with talented elected members and colleagues across all council services and with partners to find solutions to complex issues highly rewarding.

Prior to joining local government, she completed a doctorate in theoretical physics at Oxford University, having completed a first degree there.

Lorraine grew up in Northern Ireland.