A top director at Bradford Council is stepping aside at the end of the year to make way for “a fresh pair of eyes”.

Kath Tunstall has been in charge of children’s services for seven years.

She said she plans to work on other projects related to children, young people and families.

The recruitment process to find her replacement will begin soon.

Making the announcement today, Mrs Tunstall said: “I have decided the time is right for me to step down from my role and move on to pastures new.

“It hasn’t been an easy decision, as this is a job that I love, but it is time for a fresh pair of eyes and a new energy to be brought to the role to take us through the next phase of whatever will come our way.”

She said the last seven years had been the most rewarding and professionally satisfying time of her career and that putting children and young people first and delivering services in the best interests of young people was “a real privilege”.

She also praised the hard work and commitment of dedicated and passionate professionals across the district working in children’s services who had supported her.

Council chief executive Tony Reeves thanked Mrs Tunstall on behalf of the authority for the professionalism, dedication and enthusiasm she had brought to the role.

“I will personally miss her and the great contribution she has made to the leadership of the Council. She has been a fantastic person to work with, and we wish her the very best in the future,” said Mr Reeves.

Councillor Ralph Berry, portfolio-holder for children’s services, said: “The last seven years have seen real improvement and development with the services we deliver to the thousands of children and families across the district, and Kath has been instrumental in providing leadership for this.

“We have seen the successful transfer back to the Council of education services, and notable improvements in safeguarding and specialist services for children which have been acknowledged by Ofsted.”

Councillor Glen Miller, leader of the Council’s Conservative group, said Mrs Tunstall had been one of the Council’s most successful and respected officers.

He said: “Kath has worked tirelessly for the children and people of the Bradford district and deserves credit for her significant contribution. Children’s services are now on a secure footing for the future.”

e-mail: kathie.griffiths@telegraphandargus.co.uk