By Local Democracy Reporter
Christine Wise has been elected as the new Leader of Rutland County Council following a vote by councillors.
The leadership election took place during a Full Council meeting on Thursday 26 March 2026. Cllr Wise was nominated by Rosemary Powell and secured 19 votes from the 25 councillors present.
In her first statement after being elected, Cllr Wise said:
“I’m immensely proud to have been chosen as the Leader of Rutland County Council. I’m also incredibly humbled by the support I've received from my fellow councillors. This is a local authority that has achieved a huge amount for its residents, with much more still to do. In a world that seems to grow more and more uncertain by the day, we have one purpose as a group of 27 councillors and that is to secure the best possible future for our communities. I look forward to working together and working harder than ever to achieve this.”
Following her appointment, Cllr Wise confirmed the initial members of her Cabinet, with specific portfolio responsibilities to be announced at a later date. Those appointed are:
Andrew Johnson Lib Dem
Paul Browne Lib Dem
Diane Ellison Lib Dem
Oliver Hemsley Independent
Rosemary Powell Independent
Tim Smith Lib Dem
The new Leader takes over at a time of ongoing local government changes, with councils across England preparing for structural reforms and future governance arrangements.
Editor’s Comment
The appointment of Christine Wise represents a transition in leadership at a significant moment for Rutland. With local government reorganisation under discussion and a “shadow council” expected to be established in 2027 ahead of a new authority in 2028, the role carries both immediate and longer-term responsibilities.
Cllr Wise’s emphasis on continuity and collective purpose reflects the broader challenges facing the authority, including maintaining local identity while adapting to structural change. Her Cabinet selections suggest an intention to draw from existing experience within the council, although the allocation of portfolios will indicate more clearly the administration’s priorities in the months ahead.
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