Truth about Local Government

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Andrew Pritchard, Chief Executive at Runnymede Borough Council, to explore the emotional journey and challenges that come with local government reorganisation. Andrew shares his honest and heartfelt story about dedicating himself to his role at Somerset West and Taunton Council, putting his all into the organisation, only to face redundancy. He opens up...

In this episode, we dive deep into the essential skills of resilience and adaptability, crucial for thriving in today's ever-changing work environment, especially within local government. Join us as we explore practical strategies to foster these qualities within your local government workforce and develop them within yourself. We are joined by Andy Begley, Chief Executive of Shropshire Council, w...

We interviewed Sue Naughton-Marsh to discuss the development of new and existing senior leaders to effectively tackle the challenges that local authorities will face. Sue emphasises the importance of leadership development in ensuring that local authorities can navigate complex and evolving landscapes. She also identifies key skill gaps she observes in current leaders and provides strategies for a...

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Sir Christopher Haworth to explore the intricacies of being an effective chair. Drawing from his extensive experience and leadership, Sir Christopher shares invaluable tips and strategies on mastering the role of a chair. We delve into the importance of strong leadership, effective communication, and the ability to navigate complex dynamics within a boa...

In this episode, we explore the critical importance of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in local government. Our discussion begins by reinforcing why EDI is essential for effective governance and community engagement. We outline effective strategies for embedding EDI into the leadership culture of local authorities and emphasize the pivotal role of executive teams in leading these efforts. W...

In this episode, we sit down with Marina Robertson, the former Group Managing Director at Acivico, to explore the intricate journey from strategy formulation to successful delivery in a partnership setting. Marina shares her insights on the challenges and triumphs of leading a diverse team, fostering collaboration, and driving impactful results. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring prof...

In this episode, we interview Jonny Birkett, Managing Partner (Joint) at Genecon Ltd, to explore the vital question: What does culture mean for place, and why is it so important? We dive into the often-overlooked “dark matter” that weaves between the physical realm, advocating for a shift in perspective—be more gardener, and less architect. Jonny discusses how placemakers and local councils are be...

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Dunning, Chair of Pro Age, to explore the pressing issue of retaining staff as they approach retirement age within local government. Chris shares his insights on the unique challenges faced by older employees and offers practical solutions to ensure their valuable experience and knowledge are not lost. We discuss strategies for creating an inclusive work env...

In this episode, we sit down with Hannah Bartram, Chief Executive of ADEPT, to discuss the innovative "Find Your Path" campaign. Launched on February 24th, this targeted recruitment initiative aims to address critical workforce challenges in local authorities by attracting young people aged 18 to 27 to various roles within local government. We'll explore the campaign's development, its goals, and...

Absolutely loved interviewing Niall Bolger FRSA this morning discussing the evolution of leadership in local government and their complex systems. Our discussion centers on the importance of systems leadership and sustainable adult leadership, emphasising the need for sustainable services leadership. We also cover the critical aspects of leadership development, including technical capability devel...

We interview Sue Naughton-Marsh to explore the complexities of achieving hybrid harmony in the post-pandemic workplace. As organisations settle into 2-3 days a week hybrid model, the balance between engagement and autonomy becomes crucial. Sue discusses the importance of developing a leadership model that supports this balance and helps organisations understand the reasons behind adopting a hybrid...

Fantastic to sit down with the Chief Executive of Real World-Group and Chartered Occupational Psychologist, Juliette Alban-Metcalfe to discuss how leaders can embrace an engaging leadership approach to create and sustain resilience in their teams through their leadership approach and the importance of this as we transition through periods of change.

In this episode, we sit down with Alistair Cunningham OBE, Chief Executive of Tewkesbury Borough Council, to discuss his invaluable advice for the local government community on delivering major projects. Alistair emphasizes the importance of working with communities rather than imposing projects on them, highlighting this approach as key to successful major program delivery. We delve into Alistair...

We interview Sue Naughton-Marsh, a trusted partner in helping CEOs rapidly build cohesive leadership and HR leaders gain C-suite presence. Sue shares her expertise on shaping strategic organisational development (OD) for an agile, flexible, and resilient workforce. The focus of this conversation is on the importance of self-awareness for leaders and how to develop it effectively. Sue discusses pra...

Supporting diversity in our workforce is an ongoing battle. If we look to Afghanistan and women's right, where in the 1920s - King Amanullah Khan's Reforms : pioneered in advocating for women's rights, as did Prime Minister Mohammed Daoud Khan in the 1950 - 1970s continue with Progressive Changes , including the right to vote in the 1964 Constitution. Since the Taliban have risen to power there ha...

It was great to sit down with Dan Cooper Chart. PR MCIPR to delve into the economic opportunity that the East Midlands Freeport poses to future proof the region. Free ports offer a really exciting opportunity to create or stimulate new economic activity in regions where it would otherwise be difficult to. It is important that we have it on our minds eye, when LGR happens in the East Midlands that...

In the latest episode of "Truth about Local Government," Matt Masters interviews Sue Naughton-Marsh to discuss the topic "Leading Through Uncertainty: Essential Support for Leaders Getting Ready for Local Government Reform." Sue Naughton-Marsh shares her insights on the challenges and opportunities that local government leaders face during periods of significant change. She emphasizes the importan...

In this episode, we interview Jonny Birkett, Managing Partner (Joint) at Genecon Ltd, to take a hard look at whether places can truly meet their net zero targets—and why we believe the answer is no. Drawing on 2022 studies, we explore just how far places are from achieving their ambitious climate goals, examine why these commitments were made, and uncover the flaws in current strategies. Jonny hig...

We sit down with Martyn Cockram, a seasoned consultant with over 20 years of experience in delivering transformational change across various sectors, including Corporate, Housing, Commissioning, Education, and Adult and Children’s Services. Martyn shares his insights on how to effectively deliver local government reorganization and transform services by embracing punk ideology. We delve into the p...

In this episode, we sit down with Paul Cluett, Managing Director of Alliance Leisure, to discuss the unexpected collapse of one of their main contractors, ISG, in September. ISG was involved in several critical projects, including new-build leisure centres, government projects, and data centres for major clients like Amazon. Paul shares the immediate impact on Alliance Leisure and their clients, a...

In this episode, we sit down with Darren Ibell, Assistant Director of Asset Management & Development at Broxtowe Council, to explore the critical issue of sustainable employment for ex-offenders within the housing sector. Darren shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities in integrating ex-offenders into the workforce, the role of housing in their rehabilitation, and the innovative...

In this episode, Matt and James Foley from Alliance Leisure discuss how local governments can strategically integrate leisure into their frameworks to benefit communities. They explore the importance of leisure for physical health, mental well-being, and economic growth, highlight current trends like wellness activities and sustainable practices, and provide strategies for effective integration, i...

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Louise Allen, the award-winning author of the best-selling series Thrown Away Children . Louise is not only a celebrated writer but also an accomplished artist, illustrator, and foster carer. As the CEO of Sparksisterhood.org and someone who grew up in care herself, Louise brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to the table. Join us a...

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Mansfield, the CEO of ProAge, a UK charity dedicated to fostering age-inclusive workplaces and high-performing multigenerational teams. Mike is a seasoned thought leader on longevity, age-inclusion, and multigenerational workplaces. With a rich background that includes establishing the Aegon Center for Longevity and Retirement and authoring numerous reports o...

In session four, we interview Jonny Birkett, Managing Partner (Joint) at Genecon Ltd, to dive into the transformation of the night-time economy in the UK. We explore how and why this sector has evolved and what it means for the future of our towns and city centres. Once dominated by the alcohol industry—which is now facing a crisis—the night-time economy has shifted, altering the very fabric of ur...