Truth about Local Government

Today we interview Robert Burns, the forward-thinking Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council. With a robust background in transforming community services and housing, Burns brings a wealth of experience to the table. The Council, serving a population of 65,000, boasts an impressive annual revenue budget of €90 million and is set to invest €373 million in capital projects over the next three ye...

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Bally, the Chief Executive of East Suffolk Council, to explore the dynamic changes and initiatives shaping East Suffolk. Chris shares his insights on the council’s efforts to represent the community authentically and transform public perceptions of the region. We begin with an overview of East Suffolk’s unique characteristics and challenges, highlighting the...

In this episode, we sit down with Huw Russell, a Director in the Climate team at Local Partnerships LLP, and Liz Vango, Sustainability and Climate Change Officer at Hart District Council, to explore the pivotal role of local councils in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We'll discuss how councils, including Hart District Council, are leveraging free tools, jointly delivered to you by the Local Go...

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Amanda Hopgood, the Leader of Durham County Council, to discuss the transformative journey of the North East Combined Authority (NECA). Formed on May 7, 2024, the NECA aims to harness the full potential of the region by fostering collaboration among its seven local authority areas: County Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, S...

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Paula Braynion, Managing Director & Samantha-Jo Scarbrough-Lang, Assistant Director Of Operations at Director of Future Directions CIC, to discuss the groundbreaking shift towards outcome-based procurement in social care. Paula shares her extensive experience and expertise, shedding light on why focusing on outcomes rather than hours of service can...

In this episode, we sit down with Joe Fyans, Head of Research at Localis, to explore the findings of their latest report, "Restoration and Resilience: Building Capacity and Capability to Deliver Local Services in the South East." Despite its reputation for prosperity, the South East of England faces significant challenges in local governance, including financial strain, workforce shortages, and fr...

In this episode we have the pleasure of interviewing Koen Bartels, the Departmental Director of Research in Public Administration and Policy at the University of Birmingham. Koen shares his extensive knowledge and insights on the latest innovations in public administration, discussing the importance of research in shaping effective public policies and the role of academia in addressing contemporar...

In this insightful episode we sit down with Sonia Bussu and Koen Bartels from the University of Birmingham’s Department of Public Administration and Policy to delve into the findings of their recent INLOGOV report. The discussion centers around the concept of participatory culture and its critical role in enabling local governments to drive meaningful change. We explore the definition and signific...

In this episode we sit down with two industry leaders to explore the future of sustainable leisure facilities. Keith Ashton, CEO, and Natalie McGuire, Director of Business Development and Engagement, share their insights on the critical role of decarbonisation in the development of modern leisure spaces. Keith discusses the strategic initiatives his company is implementing to reduce carbon footpri...

In this episode, we delve into the innovative approach taken by Eric Owens, Director of Planning and Environment at Buckinghamshire Council. Eric shares his insights on shifting from a process-driven to an outcome-led strategy to meet the ambitious place-shaping aspirations of the region. With reduced budgets and an increasing demand for impactful results, Eric discusses how focusing on outcomes r...

In this episode, we delve into the world of organisational development with Kim Davies, a strategic and results-oriented leader who has guided diverse organisations through transformative change. Kim shares their expertise in building high-performing cultures, fostering effective leadership, and empowering individuals and teams to achieve their full potential. We explore Kim’s journey, from spearh...

.In this insightful episode, Alex Frith, Senior Business Manager at Michael Page, delves into the strategies for attracting and retaining top interim talent in blue-collar trades and maintenance. Alex shares his expertise on the unique challenges and opportunities within this sector, offering practical advice for businesses looking to build a robust and reliable workforce. Key Points Discussed: Un...

Simon Bullimore delves into the transformative potential of procurement in modern business. He explores how strategic procurement practices can significantly enhance engagement, drive commercial success, and generate social value. Bullimore discusses the importance of aligning procurement strategies with broader organizational goals to foster a more integrated and effective approach. He highlights...

In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of unlocking greenfield development with exclusive insights from industry experts at Catesby Estates. Our guests share their expertise on how planning, design, and communication strategies are pivotal in transforming undeveloped land into thriving communities. Anna Parsons – Associate Design Director Anna discusses the importance of innovative design...

.In this episode, we delve into the fascinating history of collaboration between Ian Davidson, Chief Executive of Tendring District Council, and Matthew Gladstone, Chief Executive at Peterborough City Council. We begin by exploring the remarkable story of their ancestors, who worked together as the Prime Minister and Archbishop, tackling health inequality and supporting place shaping in their era....

: In this episode, we delve into the world of adult social care with Alex Fox OBE, Delivery Director from IMPOWER. We explore the concept of strengths-based practice and discuss how it can be effectively scaled during times of austerity. Alex shares valuable insights on the impact of this approach on sustainable public services and the profound effects it has on people’s lives. Join us for an enli...

In this episode, we sit down with Andy Begley author of the insightful new book, I Didn't Row the Atlantic #sowhat . Andy shares his unique perspective on creative business thinking, drawing from his personal experiences and the wisdom of others. We delve into the key lessons from his book, exploring how creativity can drive success in business. Andy also discusses the importance of having hobbies...

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Haynes, a seasoned expert in local government services, to delve into the current challenges facing customer and digital services in local government. Mark shares his insights on the complexities and hurdles that local governments encounter in delivering efficient and effective services to their communities. We explore how a well-crafted customer experience s...

In this episode, we sit down with Sami Haque, a renowned Public Sector Finance Recruitment expert, to delve into the pressing issue of recruitment and retention during challenging global events. Sami shares his insights on how local authorities can navigate turbulent periods effectively. He discusses innovative strategies to attract top talent, the importance of maintaining a supportive work envir...

In this episode, we delve into the evolving landscape of total reward and Employee Value Proposition (EVP) within Local Authorities (LAs). Our discussion highlights the need for a shift from a purely monetary focus to a more holistic approach that includes emotional and non-financial rewards. We explore how this shift can enhance employee engagement and retention. We also examine the latest findin...

In this insightful episode, host Matt Masters sits down with Alex Atherton, an expert in generational studies and human resource strategies, to unravel the complexities of integrating Gen Z into the local government workforce. As local authorities grapple with the challenges of recruiting and retaining young talent, Atherton sheds light on the innovative approaches needed to attract this tech-savv...

In this episode, we sit down with Paul Patterson to delve into the critical issues facing local government today. Paul shares his insights on: Insourcing and Regulator Compliance : Discover how ALMO insourcing can help councils regain compliance with regulatory standards and improve service delivery. Planning Culture and Government Ambitions : Learn about creating a robust structure and changing t...

In this episode, we sit down with Cllr Bridget Smith, the Leader of South Cambridgeshire District Council, to delve into the council’s pioneering shift to a four-day working week. Bridget shares insights on how this innovative approach has not only boosted productivity and employee well-being but also enhanced service delivery to the community. We explore the tangible benefits observed since the i...

Professor Andy Pike, is a leading voice on local government finances. We discuss the current state of local government finances, the impact of austerity and what the future holds unless something is done to reform local government finances. There is undoubtable need for change, but how we deliver that change proves hard to pin down. Check out Andy's book Financialization and Local Statecraft for m...

In this episode, we sit down with Sandra Flannery to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities for women aspiring to leadership roles in facilities management. Sandra shares her personal journey, offering valuable insights and practical advice for breaking barriers and succeeding in a traditionally male-dominated field. From building confidence and developing essential skills to navigating w...