Brian Dinsdale: A Legacy of Leadership in Hartlepool

Brian Dinsdale, former CEO of Hartlepool Borough Council from 1988 to 2003

The former Hartlepool Borough Council CEO sadly passed away aged 76, as HBC Exposed takes a look back at his time at the local borough council he served at for 15 years...

8th March 2025

Brian Dinsdale, the former Chief Executive of Hartlepool Borough Council, passed away recently at the age of 76, leaving behind what many have felt to be a remarkable legacy of public service and transformative leadership.

The election of Stuart Drummond, marked as one of the most unusual chapters in the towns political history

His tenure, spanning from 1988 to 2003, marked a pivotal era for Hartlepool, during which he oversaw significant developments and even navigated one of the most unusual chapters in the town’s political history—the election of Stuart Drummond, famously known as “H’Angus the Monkey,” as mayor, with Dinsdale’s contributions to local government eventually earning him an OBE, reflecting his dedication to local governance and community progress.

A Steady Hand During Transformative Times

His most recent role was the Chairman of North Tees & Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

Dinsdale joined Hartlepool Borough Council back in 1988, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his senior financial role at Cleveland County Council. Over his nearly 15-year tenure as Chief Executive, he played a central role in steering the town through a period of profound change. Amongst his most notable achievements was said to have been his instrumental involvement in Hartlepool’s transition to a unitary authority in 1996. This shift, which abolished Cleveland County Council's jurisdiction over the town transferred critical services like education and social care to local council control, empowering Hartlepool to shape its own future. His strategic vision and financial acumen were said to have been key to making this complex transition a success.

The development of the Hartlepool Marina was seen to have been one of his most notable achievements during his role as CEO for Hartlepool Borough Council

Under Dinsdale’s leadership, Hartlepool seen several landmark regeneration projects come to fruition. The development of Hartlepool Marina stands out as one of his flagship achievements in the top role at HBC, transforming the waterfront into a vibrant hub that boosted tourism as well as local pride. He also oversaw the refurbishment of the Middleton Grange Shopping Centre and spearheaded City Challenge regeneration initiatives, which revitalized key areas of the town. These efforts were said to have laid the groundwork for economic growth and improved quality of life, cementing his reputation as a leader committed to tangible progress.

The Monkey Mayor: A Test of Leadership

Perhaps the most colourful episode of Dinsdale’s career came in 2002, when Hartlepool elected Stuart Drummond as its first directly elected mayor. Drummond, then a 28-year-old call centre worker and mascot for Hartlepool United Football Club, campaigned as “H’Angus the Monkey” with a tongue-in-cheek promise of free bananas for schoolchildren. However, what began as a publicity stunt turned into a stunning upset when Drummond narrowly defeated the Labour candidate, Leo Gillen, by a margin of 5,696 to 5,174 votes. The result making international headlines, with some branding Hartlepool a “laughing stock” , others however, celebrating the democratic quirk.

Mr Dinsdale reportedly 'didn't hold back' on how much of a job Mr Drummond had taken on !

For Dinsdale, the election presented an immediate challenge. As Chief Executive, he had to guide a novice mayor with no prior political experience through the complexities of local governance. He was said to have been candid to Mr Drummond about the steep learning curve ahead, noting in a press conference that Drummond’s “knowledge of local government was quite low” and that he needed to “climb the learning curve very quickly.”

Yet, Dinsdale’s pragmatic approach shone through. He expressed confidence in Drummond’s willingness to learn, describing him as “very sensible” and committed to the town’s welfare.

Hartlepool's then Labour MP Peter Mandelson was said to have been 'critical' of Mr Drummonds election as Mayor, fearing his election would damage investment in the town !

The “monkey mayor” controversy sparked mixed reactions. Critics, including then-MP Peter Mandelson, initially feared it would deter investment and damage Hartlepool’s reputation. Mandelson reportedly called Drummond a “disgrace” who would set the town back decades. However, Dinsdale reportedly remained a steadying influence, working behind the scenes to ensure governance continued smoothly. He facilitated Drummond’s transition, arranging meetings with political parties to form a cabinet and presenting him with what's said to have been a 300-page constitution and a 50-page report of urgent decisions. Over time, Drummond proved his critics wrong, winning re-election again in 2005 and 2009, with Dinsdale’s support said to have been a quiet but critical factor in that success.

Recognition and Later Career

After leaving Hartlepool Borough Council in 2003, Mr Dinsdale took on the top role at Middlesbrough County Council

Dinsdale’s contributions to local government were eventually honoured with an Order of the British Empire (OBE), a testament to his impactful leadership and dedication to public service. After leaving Hartlepool Borough Council back in 2003, he then took on the role as Chief Executive of Middlesbrough Borough Council, serving until 2005. His career also included roles such as clerk to Cleveland Fire Authority and board memberships with various charities & public organisations, reflecting his broad commitment to community welfare across Teesside.

A Lasting Legacy

Tributes by both the councils leader & current Managing Director are just one of many which have been received

Tributes following Dinsdale’s passing are said to have underscored his popularity and professionalism. Councillor Brenda Harrison, leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, recently praised his pivotal role during a “critical period” in the council’s history, noting that “his legacy will live on for decades to come.” Denise McGuckin, the council’s current Managing Director, described him as a “fantastic Chief Executive” who was “hugely popular with staff” and carried out his work “with the minimum of fuss.”

Brian Dinsdale leaves behind his wife Gillian, daughter Sarah, and two grandchildren. His death marking the end of an era for Hartlepool, but his achievements—from regeneration projects to navigating the town’s most eccentric political moment—ensure his influence goes on. As a leader who balanced vision with pragmatism, Dinsdale’s story is said to be one of quiet resilience, proving that even amidst the unexpected, effective governance can actually prevail.