Mayor of the City of Derby

Mayor of Derby

The Mayor of the City of Derby is Councillor Jonathan Smale.

Jonathan is Derby born and bred, carrying a deep-rooted passion for the city, its rich history, and the vibrant communities that define it. First elected to Derby City Council in 2016, he has proudly dedicated a decade of public service to representing local residents, previously serving the Chaddesden Ward and currently championing the community of Spondon.

Over his distinguished career in local government, Jonathan has brought energetic leadership and thorough governance to the chamber. He has driven positive change across a variety of crucial council portfolios, including holding key roles as a Cabinet Member and Vice Chair of the Licensing Committee.

Beyond the Council, Jonathan’s commitment to community life shines through his extensive work in the voluntary sector. He has spent years actively supporting a diverse range of local organisations, initiatives, and charities, with a particular focus on public service and community advocacy. He currently serves as a trustee for the Derby War Memorial Village, helping support local veterans and housing management, and has previously lent his governance expertise as a director for West Park School in Spondon, Community Action Derby, and several local disability and cultural organisations.

Jonathan is proudly married to his husband, Adam. Away from his civic and professional duties, he is a keen Derby County enthusiast and loves nothing more than spending quality time at home with Adam and their bulldog, Victoria.
Grounded, approachable, and fiercely proud of his hometown, Jonathan enters his mayoral year determined to be a proactive ambassador for Derby. He is deeply honoured to represent the citizens of Derby for the 2026–27 municipal year, aiming to promote the city as a premier place of excellence to live, work, and do business.

Deputy Mayor

The Deputy Mayor is Councillor Richard Hudson.

A biography will follow soon.