Laura Choake was appointed following the retirement of Al McDowell earlier this year. She begins her new role with immediate effect.
Laura said: “I am so proud to have been appointed as Director of Adult Social Care & Prevention and can't wait to get to work ensuring we continue to deliver great things for the residents of Newcastle.
“In my time in this directorate, I have already seen how hard people work to provide crucial interventions for residents. The impact our services have on people in this city is truly inspiring.
“The sector is facing a number of challenges, and we need to find more innovative ways to ensure those who need our support can access it.
“We have a fantastic team in place already who are dedicated to putting residents at the heart of what we do every single day. I can't wait to get started.
Newcastle City Council Chief Executive, Pam Smith, said: “I am delighted Laura will be joining our Corporate Leadership Team following a rigorous recruitment process.
“I look forward to working with her and together we will endeavour to provide excellent services for the people of our great city.”
Laura will lead a directorate which supports adults who have social care needs to live their best lives in the city.
She joined the authority in 2008, gaining experience in a number of roles across adult social care and the wider organisation.
Through her work she found her passion for adult social care, seeing how good social care can bring connection, joy, and independence to people’s lives.
As a city resident, she believes in the strength of communities and is committed to providing great quality, preventative adult social care in the city.
Prior to joining the council, Laura worked for the NHS, and continues to work closely with NHS partners, care providers, and local organisations to make sure Newcastle is a great place to access support.
She has an honours degree in leadership and management, and a post graduate certificate in leadership development from Northumbria University, and a Masters in Economics and Public Policy from London School of Economics.