Beverly Owen will leave Newport City Council at the end of 2026, closing out an 11-year tenure with the authority and a 35-year career in local government.
Ms Owen said: "I feel it is now the right time to move on after 35 years in local government and 11 years with Newport City Council.
"It is, quite rightly, a challenging and demanding role with a wide range of responsibilities for more than 600 services and thousands of employees.
"As well as wanting to explore other professional opportunities, stepping back will give me time to pursue my personal priorities and prioritise my family."
She described it as a privilege to serve the council and said she was proud of what had been achieved during her time in Newport.
Ms Owen thanked council staff, senior leaders, and elected members for their support.
She said: "All of us have worked together to improve the lives of residents and strive to make Newport the best it can be.
"I know that will continue after I have left and I wish everyone the best for the future."
Her departure marks the end of a significant era for Newport City Council.
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Ms Owen joined the authority in 2015 as head of regeneration, investment and housing.
She became strategic director for place in 2016 and was appointed chief executive in 2020.
Council leader Dimitri Batrouni praised her leadership and dedication.
He said: "Beverly has led the council with distinction.
"She has steered the council through unprecedented and challenging times including the pandemic and increasing financial pressures due to the many years of austerity.
"The council is now in a stronger position and that is due in no small part to her leadership."
Ms Owen began her career in local government in Merthyr Tydfil.
She secured her first head of service role in Blaenau Gwent at the age of 28.
A recruitment process to appoint Newport’s next chief executive is expected to begin in the coming months.
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