Truth about Local Government

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Matt Wilton, the Deputy Chief Executive of Newcastle City Council, to explore the pivotal role of policy in local government leadership. Matt shares his extensive experience and provides a deep dive into how well-crafted policies can drive progressive change and effective decision-making at the local level. Key Discussion Points: The Importance of Polic...

In this episode we sit down with Rachel McKoy, currently the Director of Law & Governance at the London Borough of Newham and the London Borough of Havering. Rachel, who is also the Immediate Past President of Lawyers in Local Government and a Board Solicitor/Non-Executive Director at Solace, will soon be taking on a new role as the Director of Law and Governance at the London Borough of Newha...

In this episode, we interview Steph McKay, a Senior Business Manager at Michael Page with over 15 years of experience in recruitment and talent acquisition. Steph shares her expert insights on how candidates can excel in interviews by effectively utilizing the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique. Listeners will learn how to structure their responses to highlight their skills and exper...

In this episode, we sit down with Simon Bullimore, Head of Group Procurement at Norse Group and Hannah Quinn-Hill, Director of Procurement Recruitment at Page Group, to delve into the evolving landscape of procurement within local authorities. Simon shares his insights on how procurement leaders can effectively drive commercial success and social value, ensuring that procurement is not just a cost...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Claire Handby, a renowned expert in public sector innovation, to explore the intricacies of commercial improvement within the public sector. Dr. Handby shares her extensive knowledge on optimizing commercial engagement between public and private entities, highlighting the importance of authentic leadership in driving successful outcomes. We delve into practica...

In this episode, we sit down with Joanna McCrae, the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Client Solutions Director at Page Group. Joanna shares her insights on the critical issue of the lack of diversity in Non-Executive Directorships (NEDs) and why it’s essential to address this imbalance. We delve into the challenges and barriers that have historically limited diversity in these roles and discuss...

In this episode we delve into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by legal professionals within political local government settings. Our guest, esteemed legal expert Asif Ibrahim, Director of Legal Services at Manchester City Council, shares his wealth of experience and knowledge on navigating the intricacies of local governance. From addressing community-specific legal issues to impleme...

In this heartfelt episode we delve into the profound impact of mental health in the workplace. Join us as we sit down with Gemma Platt, the Head of HR at c2c, and Matt Gofton, Senior Employer Engagement at CIPD. Both have experienced the devastating loss of Gemma’s husband, James, to suicide in 2019, and have since dedicated themselves to advocating for mental health awareness and support. Gemma a...

In this insightful episode of ‘Paving the Future,’ we delve into the transformative world of parking solutions with Sarah Randall, Director of Local Government & Propositions at Smarter Parking Group. Sarah shares her expert insights on the pressing challenges faced by the parking sector and unveils two groundbreaking initiatives: the National Parking Platform (NPP) and the National Persistent...

We are shaking up our normal structure and have our guest Simon Lewis, a highly experienced Director of Property, who has recently become an interim, interviewing our host Matt Masters about how to navigate the world of contracting. A honest conversation, with some useful tips for interims either working in local government or considering becoming an interim in local government. No questions are o...

In this episode, we sit down with Paul Pawa, Group Strategic Development Director, to explore how local governments can enhance their resilience through strategic joint ventures and Local Authority Trading Companies (LATCOs). Paul shares his expertise on the benefits, challenges, and best practices for implementing these innovative approaches to public service delivery. Tune in to discover how the...

In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Fitzgerald-Guy, a highly experienced local government director renowned for his expertise in transformational and commercial strategies. Jonathan shares his journey of leading significant organisational and operational changes, including his remarkable success in transforming the County Council property function. We delve into his unique approach to under...

In this episode, we sit down with Jon McGinty, the Chief Executive of Gloucester City Council, to explore the council's transformative journey towards embracing evolution in local government. Jon shares his insights on the challenges and successes faced by the council as they implement innovative strategies to improve public services and community engagement. From digital transformation to sustain...

In the episode we sit down with public sector build environment recruitment experts Steph McKay and Joe Glendon from Page Group, where we delve into the evolving landscape of recruitment across the public sector for 2024. There are key pieces of advice for both candidates and clients as to how to stand out in a busy and competitive market place.

In this episode, Matt Masters sits down with local government expert Sarah Tyler to dissect the nuances of local democracy and its tangible impact on community services. As they navigate through the layers of council structures and the links to MPs, they shed light on the accountability mechanisms that are supposed to serve the electorate. Sarah provides an insider’s perspective on how these relat...

In this essential episode, Matt Masters interviews Alex Gee, a Senior Consultant at CIPFA Property Services, to discuss the journey towards achieving Net Zero emissions. They explore whether we have the right data to begin this journey and how data-driven strategies can lead to a sustainable future.

In this episode of “Resetting Social Care,” host Matt Masters sits down with Stephen Young, the Chief Executive of Halton Borough Council, to delve into the pressing issue of unsustainable costs in social care. As the financial burden on social care systems continues to grow, many are questioning whether it’s time for a fundamental reset. Stephen Young brings his extensive experience and insights...

In this episode, host Matt Masters sits down with the esteemed Sir Chris Haworth to delve into the intricate balance of risk, reward, and resilience in development and place shaping strategies. Sir Chris shares his expertise on how to navigate the complexities of policy-making in a world where economic shocks have become more frequent and unpredictable. Drawing from a wealth of experience, Sir Chr...

In this engaging episode, Matt Masters interviews Alex Gee, a Senior Consultant at CIPFA Property Services, to debate the optimal placement of property functions within local authorities. They discuss the advantages and disadvantages of situating property management in the Resources department versus the Place department. Matt and Alex summarize the key takeaways and offer practical advice for loc...

Today I met with Peter Jackson , Managing Director of Seddon where we explored retrofitting on existing homes, the impact on residents, and Seddon’s innovative approach to improving housing quality. From energy efficiency to community engagement, we’ll uncover the strategies that make a difference. Seddon have been actively involved in improving social housing stock through retrofit and other init...

In this episode we speak with Amardeep Gill, a distinguished expert in public sector advisory and transformation projects. Amardeep, who leads the Public Sector division at Trowers and Hamlins, brings a wealth of experience from various sectors including digital technology, transport, health, and more. Key Topics Covered: Best Value Guidelines: Amardeep explains the principles and practices local...

Host: Matt Masters Guests: Mark Fowler , Deputy Chief Executive, Luton Borough Council Jordan Mendel , Senior Director in Data Analytics, Local Partnerships LLP Episode Summary: In this episode, Matt Masters sits down with Mark Fowler and Jordan Mendel to discuss the ambitious corporate transformation underway at Luton Borough Council. The conversation delves into the appetite for change and the e...

In this insightful episode, Matt Masters sits down with Alex Gee, a Senior Consultant at CIPFA Property Services, to delve into the intricate balance between strategy and structure in the realm of corporate landlord and asset management. Key Discussion Points: Defining Strategy vs. Structure: Understanding the core differences and how they complement each other. The importance of aligning strategi...

Investing for Good” explores how local authorities can leverage their resources to drive positive social, economic, and environmental change. Join us as we delve into the principles and practices of ethical and impactful investing within the public sector. Each episode features insightful interviews with experts, case studies of successful initiatives, and practical advice for local government off...

In this episode, I sit down with Scott Tompkins, an expert in Highways, Transport, and Place, to delve into three critical issues facing the Place Agenda with Local Authorities. Finances : The impact of austerity on local authority budgets, the rise of S114 notices, and the difficult balance between statutory duties and ‘nice-to-haves’. We discuss how authorities are stretching capital spending gu...