Karen Kilgour

As Leader of Newcastle City Council, Councillor Karen Kilgour provides political leadership in the coordination of council policies, strategies and service delivery. Karen became the first woman to ever be appointed as Leader of Newcastle City Council and is a former Council Officer, having worked in social housing with communities and regeneration. Karen also provides democratic leadership to residents and stakeholders, ensuring a collaborative approach to the development and delivery of services that meet people’s needs and aspirations. Karen plays a key role in projecting Newcastle to a global audience by having oversight of the council’s international strategy; is the council’s lead for equality, diversion and inclusion; and is helping to ensure the city’s residents can live longer, healthier lives having helped Newcastle begin its journey to become a Marmot City in early 2025. Karen has served as a councillor since 2014 and cabinet member since 2015.