Chief Executive John Packman announces retirement

The Broads Authority’s Chief Executive, John Packman has announced his intention to retire once a recruitment process to appoint his successor is completed.

John has expressed his pride in what has been achieved during his 25-year tenure within a heartfelt open letter to Broads Authority staff, members and volunteers (copied below).

Harry Blathwayt, Chair of the Authority said of the news, “Of course I am deeply saddened to learn that we will be losing John after an incredible period as Chief Executive. John has rightly described his role as one of the best jobs in Britain, and it is also one of the trickiest roles anyone can take on. He has been modest in his summary of notable achievements…I am sure many would be able to add much to that list.

"I have always admired John’s ability to address challenges, juggle competing interests and approach challenging decisions in a calm, measured and efficient manner. And of course I am in awe of all that he has achieved during that time. Whilst we are not likely to be saying goodbye for six months or so, I know John will approach this time with his usual enthusiasm and determination as we seek to fill the sizeable void that his departure creates. I am sure that I speak for the Board when I say, we still have much to do together.”

A report detailing the recruitment process will be presented at the next meeting of the Broads Authority on 25 July.

John's resignation letter:

"Dear Harry,

Following a long period of heart-searching I have decided that the time has come for me to retire. After nearly 25 years of service, I am giving formal notice of my intention to leave the Broads Authority at the end of 2025 or early 2026, depending on when my successor can take up the role.

Being Chief Executive of the Broads Authority is a privilege and one of the best jobs in Britain, and I have loved it.

I never thought I would still be in post in 2025 but various crises, including COVID, have meant that it never seemed the right time for the Authority for me to leave. But there will always be challenges and opportunities around the corner for the Broads Authority's Chief Executive - problem-solving is part of the job satisfaction.

Setting the level of tolls for 2026/27 in November will be particularly difficult because of the falling number of private and hire boats, and I would like to see the organisation through that before I leave.

In 2026 we will start preparing a new Broads Plan for 2027-32 and it would be good for a fresh pair of eyes to lead that process.

Much has been achieved by the Authority over the last 25 years. Some of the highlights are:

• Organising an international conference at UEA in 2003 to highlight the impact of climate change on the most important lake systems around the world. This provided the foundation for the Authority's focus on climate change, and particularly on sea­ level rise. It led to the development of the Broadland Futures Initiative, the  partnership formed with the Environment Agency to study the long-term effects of rising sea levels on this special landscape.
• Modernising the operation of the Authority, reducing its membership from 35 to 21 in 2005, using the latest technology and moving into modern open-plan premises in 2008.
• Taking direct responsibility for the practical maintenance of the waterways in 2007 when May Gurney decided to give up that role. That delivered 25% more work for the same expenditure. In 2011 we invested in the new dockyard workshop and offices and have since purchased new equipment and used hydrographic surveys supported by mapping to prioritise our dredging programme.
• Bringing the processing of planning applications in-house in 2007 to deliver a higher standard of service for our applicants and their agents.
• Overseeing a series of European and Lottery-funded programmes that have pioneered new approaches to managing this internationally important wetland.
• Promoting a Private Bill through Parliament (2006-2009) to improve safety on the Broads via the Boat Safety Scheme and the introduction of compulsory third-party insurance.
• Transferring the responsibility for Breydon Water to the Authority in 2012, which enabled the repair of Turntide Jetty in 2015, the installation of new steel marker posts in 2024, and regular patrols by the Spirit of Breydon.
• Promoting the Broads via the Broads National Park brand and successfully defending the Authority's decision to do so in the High Court in 2016.
• Leading the development of branding for the UK's National Parks in 2019 to promote them to new audiences.

The real joy of the role has been working with an outstanding group of Members and a brilliant staff and volunteer complement. They have been tremendously supportive and more like friends than colleagues - I shall miss them all.

I have enjoyed working with the staff of our many partner organisations and collaborating with the National Parks' Chief Executives and the Heads of Communications and IT.

I am very conscious that I am lucky to have had inspiring Chairs. They have always been available to provide me with guidance and help. My first Chair was Sheelin Knollys, followed by Kerry Turner, Stephen Johnson, Jacquie Burgess, Hayden Thirtle, Bill Dickson, and then you, Harry. I am grateful to you all.

The Directors and Managers have been a delight to work with, and I shall miss my regular contact with such talented individuals.

I am fortunate to have had the support of wonderful personal assistants, from Lydia Taylor in 2001 to the current, marvellous Essie Guds.

Thank you again. It has been a most enjoyable and rewarding experience.

With regards and best wishes,

John."

Thursday 17 July 2025