Joint Strategic Director for Finance to leave Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council in February 2027

Jo Knight has announced that she will be leaving her role as Joint Strategic Director for Finance at Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council in February 2027 to take up the position of Strategic Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive at the Isle of Wight Council. She will remain in post until February to support a smooth transition.

Jo joined Guildford Borough Council in September 2023 as Assistant Director of Finance before taking on the role of Joint Assistant Director for Finance across both Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council in April 2025. She was appointed Joint Strategic Director for Finance and Resources and Section 151 Officer for both councils in January 2026.

Throughout her time with the councils, Jo has been a valued member of the leadership team, playing a key role in strengthening financial management, supporting organisational transformation and guiding both authorities through periods of significant change.

As Joint Strategic Director for Finance and Resources, Jo has provided strategic financial leadership, championed strong governance, financial sustainability and value for money. Through close collaboration with elected members, senior leaders and finance colleagues, she has supported the delivery of council priorities while helping to build strong foundations for the future. She has also been instrumental in supporting preparations for Local Government Reorganisation, helping both councils navigate a complex and evolving landscape and ensuring they are well placed to seize future opportunities while maintaining a strong focus on residents and communities.

Jo Knight, Joint Strategic Director for Finance, said:

"It has been a privilege to work with colleagues, members and partners across Guildford and Waverley. Together we have achieved a great deal during a period of significant change, and I am incredibly proud of everything the finance teams have accomplished.

While I am excited to take up this new opportunity at the Isle of Wight Council, I will always look back fondly on my time at Guildford and Waverley and wish both organisations every success for the future."

Cllr Julia McShane, Leader of Guildford Borough Council, said:

"While we are naturally disappointed to be losing Jo, this is a fantastic opportunity for her and one that is richly deserved. Jo has provided outstanding financial leadership during her time with us and has played a key role in strengthening the council's financial resilience and supporting major transformation programmes. Her expertise, professionalism and collaborative approach have been hugely valued by members and officers alike. We thank Jo for her contribution and wish her every success and happiness in her new role."

Cllr Paul Follows, Leader of Waverley Borough Council, said:

"Jo has made a significant contribution to Waverley during her time as Joint Strategic Director for Finance. Her strategic leadership, financial expertise and commitment to public service have helped guide the council through a period of considerable change. On behalf of everyone at Waverley, I would like to thank Jo for her dedication and service and wish her every success in her new role as Strategic Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Executive at the Isle of Wight Council."

Published on: 12 November 2026