fylkesordføreren

A fylkesordfører is a political office in Norway. The term translates to county mayor. The fylkesordfører is the political leader of a county municipality (fylkeskommune). This role is analogous to the mayor of a city or municipality. The fylkesordfører presides over the county council (fylkesting) and represents the county in various capacities.

The responsibilities of a fylkesordfører include chairing meetings of the county executive committee (fylkesutvalg) and ensuring that decisions made by the county council are implemented. They also play a key role in the political discourse and development of the county. The election of a fylkesordfører is typically done by the members of the county council following a general election. The specific powers and duties can vary slightly depending on the administrative reforms and the size and structure of the particular county municipality.

Historically, the role and the structure of county municipalities in Norway have undergone changes. Following a reform that took effect in 2024, the former county municipalities were largely abolished and their responsibilities were transferred to the new, larger regions or to the national government. Consequently, the position of fylkesordfører as it existed before this reform has been phased out in many areas. New regional political leadership structures may exist in the reformed regions, but they might not use the exact title of fylkesordfører.