Craig Cooper, the Strategic Director of City Operations at Birmingham City Council, has resigned after just two years in the role, as the city grapples with mounting rubbish and a prolonged strike by refuse workers. Cooper announced his departure on LinkedIn, revealing he is moving to Australia, though his new employer has not been disclosed.
The council's waste services have been severely disrupted since January, when more than 350 Unite union members began a series of walkouts. Indefinite strike action commenced on March 11, with workers protesting over jobs, pay, and conditions. The dispute has led to rat infestations and piles of uncollected waste across the city, with residents describing scenes as 'apocalyptic'.
Cooper, who previously worked on the 2022 Commonwealth Games, acknowledged the role had been 'challenging' and 'complex' but made no mention of the ongoing rubbish crisis in his farewell post. He stated: 'After an extraordinary few years, it's time to say goodbye to Birmingham - a city that has challenged me, inspired me, and given me so much.'
He hinted at a possible role related to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, writing: 'I'm looking forward, with one eye on Brisbane 2032.' However, when approached, Cooper denied he would be working on the Games, saying: 'You'd be wrong to state that I'm actually at present working to deliver Brisbane 2032.' He confirmed the move to Australia was planned some time ago.
The council has faced criticism over its handling of the bin strike, which has seen uncollected rubbish piling up in streets for months. Cooper's departure adds to the challenges facing the authority as it seeks to resolve the dispute and restore waste services.
