Corporate Director and Monitoring Officer who came to UK as asylum seeker in 1980s retires after 37 years at city council
Brighton and Hove City Council has announced the retirement of Abraham Ghebre-Ghiorghis, its Corporate Director for Corporate Services and Monitoring Officer, after 37 years of service.
The council recognised Ghebre-Ghiorghis for his “instrumental” role in championing race equality within the council, noting that his efforts in mentoring and guiding colleagues, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, had fostered a culture of “openness and inclusivity”.
Describing him as a “champion of equality and good governance”, Brighton and Hove said: “His advocacy for Black and Global Majority communities and his role as an equality champion and link with the council’s BME Workers Forum has made a difference internally and in the city.
“Abraham's dedication to supporting local political leaders, council staff, partner organisations and the wider community has been unwavering.”
Ghebre-Ghiorghis came to Britain from Eritrea as an asylum seeker in 1982.
He said: “Britain gave me sanctuary and 37 years ago, this lovely city welcomed me as its citizen and I made it my home.
“The same year, against all odds, the council took the risk and gave me my first job as a trainee solicitor and surrounded me with fantastic managers and colleagues who educated me and picked me up when I was down.”
He added: “I had the unique privilege of working with people who were ready to see beyond my refugee status, skin colour, unusual name or accent and see what I was able to do.
"The support, guidance, love and encouragement I received from Members and Officers over the years is something that will stay with me for the rest of my life.”
Reflecting on Ghebre-Ghiorghis’ legacy of “service and commitment”, Council Leader Bella Sankey said: “Abraham is an outstanding public servant, and he has served Brighton & Hove with passion and distinction.
“His razor-sharp mind, his integrity and love of our city are unparalleled. Abraham's journey from a person seeking asylum to becoming the beating heart of our civic life represents everything our city and country should offer to those seeking sanctuary.
“We will miss Abraham greatly, but his enormous legacy and example will endure at Brighton & Hove City Council for years to come.”
In leaving the local authority, Ghebre-Ghiorghis’ tenure as the Monitoring Officer and principal legal advisor to East Sussex Fire Authority also concludes.
Lottie Winson