Cllr Karl Johnson set to become new Leader of Wakefield Council
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Cllr Karl Johnson is set to be formally confirmed as the Leader of Wakefield Council by a vote at the Annual Council Meeting next week.
He will be supported by Cllr John Thomas, who’ll take on the role of Deputy Leader of the Council.
Cllr Karl Johnson and Cllr John Thomas were nominated to head up Wakefield Council after being elected as Wakefield Reform UK Group Leader and Deputy Leader respectively.
“We’re going to be working flat out to deliver for everyone in our district.
“Wakefield and the Five Towns will always come first in every decision we take. Our focus will be getting the basics right. Providing better value for money from Council services. Improving our roads and public spaces. And restoring pride to our communities.
“I know that every Councillor elected last week, everyone who works for the Council, and all of our public, private and voluntary partners want the best for our district.
“We all care about building a positive future and capitalising on the amazing potential our district has. I look forward to us achieving great things together.”
Cllr Karl Johnson
Cllr Karl Johnson represents the Stanley and Outwood East ward. He is a proud Stanley resident who has spent most of his life living in Wakefield.
Passionate about the creative industries, Cllr Johnson is a former music teacher. He’s a well-respected local business owner who has built and run two well-established businesses in Wakefield city centre and so understands the challenges facing our local economy.
Cllr Johnson previously served on the Council representing the Wakefield South ward from 2019 – 2023.
Cllr John Thomas represents the Altofts and Whitwood ward. He brings a wealth of experience from 28 years of working in warehousing and logistics. Including extensive expertise in supply chain logistics, public sector procurement, data analysis and leading successful teams.
Cllr Thomas has lived in Wakefield district since childhood, having attended Kettlethorpe High School, and now lives in Castleford.
“I’m looking forward to being part of a strong leadership team that focuses every day on making life better for every resident. No matter where you live in our district.
“Over the last few months, I’ve spoken to thousands of people about the change they want to see.
“We’re going to be looking at everything the Council does so that we stop wasting your money. Take long-term decisions rather than focus on political point-scoring. And make sure the Council genuinely listens to your views and involves you in decision-making.”
Cllr John Thomas
The nominations follow the district elections on Thursday 7 May which saw Reform UK gain 58 seats on the Council.
The new Leader and Deputy will be supported by a senior leadership team of elected members, known as the Cabinet. The process to select the Cabinet is underway.
The Annual Council Meeting takes place on Wednesday 20 May starting at 11.30am. Members of the public can attend in person or watch the livestream live or later here.