Local Government Stories – Details, episodes & analysis

We're excited to bring you the 11th and final episode of Series 1 of The Local Government Stories Podcast! 🎉

This episode features a compelling conversation with Stephen Gabriel, the CEO of Tamworth Borough Council, just as we approach the General Elections. 

What to Expect in Episode 11: 

• From Streets to Leadership: Stephen shares the pivotal moment when he chose to pursue work over life on the streets, a decision that set him on the path to becoming a leader in local government. 

• Unexpected Journey: Reflecting on his journey, Stephen reveals how, as a 17-year-old, he never imagined he would one day be a Chief Executive. 

• Diverse Roles and Challenges: Learn about Stephen's various leadership roles, from working within communities at Sandwell Council to handling housing crises at Birmingham, and leading strategic plans through the pandemic at Wychavon and Malvern Hills District Councils. 

• Passion for Housing: Throughout his career, Stephen has held executive roles in housing trusts and associations, demonstrating a deep commitment to the housing agenda. 

Don't miss this inspiring episode that encapsulates the dedication and resilience required to lead in local government.  

Thank you for being a valued listener. We look forward to bringing you more insightful Local Government stories in Series 2! 

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• Solace website: solace.org.uk 

• Dedicated podcast site:

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://solace.org.uk/blog/local-government-stories-podcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠

• Share on our Socials:

⁠@Solace_UK⁠  ⁠LinkedIn⁠ #LocalGovernmentStories

We are thrilled to announce the 10th episode of The Local Government Stories Podcast, featuring a special guest, Andrew Kerr, CEO of Edinburgh Council.

Andrew began his career in Leisure Services and has since built an impressive 42-year journey in local government, serving as Chief Executive across four major local councils in North Tyneside, Wiltshire, Cornwall, and currently in Edinburgh.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Andrew is a medal-winning 400m runner who has represented Team GB and Scotland at the international level. He was honoured with an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2021 for his contributions to public services.

Throughout his career, Andrew has held various local and national roles. His move to Wiltshire as Chief Executive drew significant media attention as he navigated some challenging political waters with redundancy after only 18 months into the position. He then moved to the Chief Executive role in Cornwall where he faced some unprecedented challenges during politically difficult times.

Andrew later took the opportunity as the Chief Executive of diverse Edinburgh, leading through the challenging pandemic period. He has overseen significant events, including the arrangements for the Queen of England's funeral.

Today he leads on developing positive relationships with the city’s four universities, engaging with a breadth of partners that make the city a global attraction.

Don't miss this insightful episode where Andrew shares his vast experience and unique stories from his distinguished career in local government.

• Solace website: solace.org.uk 

• Dedicated podcast site:

⁠⁠⁠https://solace.org.uk/blog/local-government-stories-podcast/⁠⁠⁠

• Share on our Socials:

@Solace_UK  LinkedIn #LocalGovernmentStories

Nazeya Hussain speaks with Tom Riordan in Leeds, one of the fastest-growing cities in the UK.

Tom was born and bred in Yorkshire and his career spans national, regional and local government. He started his journey in the Civil Service fast track before returning to Leeds to set up the Regional development agency. In 2010 he joined Leeds City Council and local government.

Under Tom's leadership, Leeds City Council won MJ Council of the year in 2016 and Digital Council of the year award in 2019.

Solace website:

• https://solace.org.uk

• Dedicated podcast site: http://solace.org.uk/local-government-stories

Socials:

• @Solace_UK #LocalGovernmentStories

With a career spanning over 28 years in Local Government, Pippa Milne brings a wealth of experience and insights. As Scotland Solace Leadership Lead, a member of the electoral management board for Scotland, a qualified coach, and now a podcast host, Pippa's journey is nothing short of remarkable. 

We are excited to announce the release of Episode 9 of our podcast series, featuring an inspiring conversation with Pippa Milne, the Chief Executive of Argyll and Bute Council, the second largest council in Scotland. 

In this episode, Pippa passionately discusses the benefits of aiming for the top job in local government. She highlights the significant impact one can have on communities, the opportunity to work with a diverse range of people, and the chance to develop invaluable career-building skills. Pippa shares how the role allows for new connections, travel, and networking, making it a dynamic and rewarding career choice. 

Additionally, Pippa opens up about joining the council after a challenging period marked by a breakdown in relationships between members and officers. She delves into the strategies she employed to rebuild trust and improve collaboration within the council, showcasing her resilience and leadership during tough times.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and learn from Pippa Milne's experiences and career-changing moves. 

• Solace website: solace.org.uk 

• Dedicated podcast site:

⁠⁠⁠https://solace.org.uk/blog/local-government-stories-podcast/⁠⁠⁠

• Socials:

@Solace_UK #LocalGovernmentStories

In this episode, Matt Prosser shares his remarkable journey spanning over 30 years in local government, from his early responsibilities in the Royal Marines to his current role as a national policy leader in local government reform.

As the President of Solace and a prominent figure in the National Leadership Forum, Matt brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing local communities. 

Key Highlights: 

• Transformation and improvement strategies in delivering local efficiencies. 
• National leadership roles in driving digital innovation and learning. 
• Insights into managing diverse generations and EDI challenges. 
• Collaboration across sectors for community support and development. 

This episode is not just about local government; it's about leadership, innovation, and the future we're building together. We invite you to listen, learn, and be inspired by Matt Prosser's vision for stronger, more resilient communities. 

• Solace website: solace.org.uk 

• Dedicated podcast site: 

⁠⁠⁠https://solace.org.uk/blog/local-government-stories-podcast/⁠⁠⁠ 

• Socials:  

@Solace_UK #LocalGovernmentStories 

Dr Grace Vickers, Chief Executive at Midlothian Council, is a dynamic leader in local government. She has improved school performance and played key roles in addressing pandemic-related schooling issues as co-chair of the Scottish Government's National Children and Families Collective Leadership Group. In 2023, she chaired Solace Scotland, highlighting her extensive leadership experience. 

Grace's leadership journey from Head Teacher to Chief Executive at Midlothian Council is rooted in her strong academic foundation, including a postgraduate certificate in secondary education, a PhD from the University of Edinburgh Business School, SQH, and a B.Mus (Hons). 

Dr Vickers gained invaluable insights into impactful policy decisions during her time as a secondary Head Teacher at a diverse Catholic school, where she witnessed firsthand the difference such decisions can make on the ground. This experience propelled her into the role of Quality Improvement Manager at the City of Edinburgh Council, marking the beginning of her distinguished career in local government. 

Grace's leadership roles at Midlothian Council, a rapidly growing local authority specializing in life sciences, have been pivotal. She served as Education and Chief Education Officer, overseeing significant initiatives that drove positive change in education across the region. Her subsequent role as Head of Education at Midlothian Council allowed her to spearhead the implementation of a new curriculum across Edinburgh, further cementing her impact on educational development. 

Throughout her career, from pioneering educational initiatives to her current position as Chief Executive, Grace remains dedicated to delivering improved outcomes for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds within her community.

Tune in to Episode 7 as we explore Grace Vickers' transformative journey and her unwavering commitment to educational excellence. 

• Solace website solace.org.uk

• Dedicated podcast site:

⁠⁠https://solace.org.uk/blog/local-government-stories-podcast/⁠⁠

• Socials:

@Solace_UK #LocalGovernmentStories

Natalie Brahma-Pearl, newly appointed Chief Executive of Portsmouth City Council shares her vast experience in local government spanning over 26 years.

Natalie's career journey on Episode 6 gives us a comprehensive account of her impressive portfolio in environmental health to managing large front-line services focussed on transformation and change, paving her way into local government.

From her Chief Executive position at Crawley Borough Council in West Sussex to navigating political challenges at Horsham District Council focussing on transformation, we gain insights from her perspective on managing the political landscape and leading large organizations. 

Her academic background in environmental policy and strategy led to her first job as an Environment Officer at Lancaster Council tackling pollution in the environmental Department, then moving to Harrow branching into policy and environmental health.

From Harrow she moved to Adur District Council working in sustainability taking on responsibilities of safety culture gaining exposure within community and regeneration.

As a Chief Executive at Crawley, she shares her dedication to improving communities, setting up STEM programmes for schools, facing unemployment issues and the effects of furlough during the pandemic. 

In her current role as Chief Executive of Portsmouth Council, she has transitioned from a borough setting to leading a unitary at Portsmouth City Council and through sheer determination and resilience during personal challenges we learn how her early childhood shaped her.

• Solace website:

solace.org.uk

• Dedicated podcast site:

⁠https://solace.org.uk/blog/local-government-stories-podcast/⁠

• Socials:

@Solace_UK #LocalGovernmentStories

In recognition of her exemplary contributions to both local and central government, Carolyn Downs was honoured with the title of Companion of the Order of the Bath in the 2011 New Year's Honours list. Boasting a rich four-decade-long career in Local Government, Carolyn currently serves on various boards, focusing on advancing health and social care integration.

Carolyn Downs shares her incredible journey from Bolton librarian to navigating political landscapes as a Chief Executive. Discover her CEO network's pivotal role, the impact of an all-female top team at Shropshire Council, and insights gained at the Ministry of Justice amidst Whitehall's culture.

Join us as Carolyn opens up about challenges faced at the LGA, where transparency and unwavering values were key. Explore her strategic leadership ensuring political will delivery and protection for councils and members.

Carolyn also shares her essential CEO skills, from political management to navigating values, and her authentic leadership principles – managing risks, building confidence, embracing bravery, and fostering trust. Tune in for a podcast packed with leadership insights.

• Solace website:

https://solace.org.uk/

• Dedicated podcast site:

https://solace.org.uk/blog/local-government-stories-podcast/

• Socials:

@Solace_UK #LocalGovernmentStories

Joanne Roney, CEO at Manchester City Council earned an OBE in 2009 for her exceptional service to local government. As Solace's president during the pandemic, she was an strong and authoritative voice for the whole sector. Joanne adds a CBE to her accolades this year in the King's New Year's Honour List.

In this podcast episode, we delve into Joanne's remarkable career journey. Starting as a young Apprentice at Birmingham City Council, Joanne shares pivotal moments that shaped her leadership path.

As a CEO, she reflects on the dynamic nature of her role, emphasising strategic thinking and leveraging strengths and weaknesses to build a supportive team.

Join us as Joanne recounts her move from Birmingham to her first Chief Executive role at Wakefield Metropolitan Borough Council, where she held the top post from 2008.

From leading the 'Our Manchester' plan to dealing with unprecedented events including the Manchester Arena Bombing, discover how Joanne continuously learns from the diverse experiences of those around her.

• Solace website:

https://solace.org.uk/

• Dedicated podcast site:

https://solace.org.uk/local-government-stories-podcast/

• Socials:

@Solace_UK #LocalGovernmentStories

Tom Stannard, a regeneration and economic development professional, shares his experience of diversity and cultural changes.

Tom is a former West Londoner turned Director of Comms in East Lancashire, where he led Blackburn's council to multiple 'Council of the Year' victories.

With a background in regeneration and economic development, Tom unveils his secrets of effective leadership, emphasising the value of diversity in learning.

As a commissioner at the Living Wage Foundation and a Solace spokesperson for climate change, Tom sheds light on the motivations behind taking on the Chief Executive role. Tune in for a first-hand account of the CEO's day-to-day reality and gain insights from a leader dedicated to success and positive change.

• Solace website:

https://solace.org.uk/

• Dedicated podcast site:

https://solace.org.uk/local-government-stories-podcast/

• Socials:

@Solace_UK #LocalGovernmentStories