Future Local Lab
Local Government ExplainedBuilding the workforce of tomorrow essay collection
This Future Local Lab collection showcases LGIU-exclusive resources about building the workforce of tomorrow. In this collection, you will find a range of essays from local government leaders around the world, as well as interviews with some of our Future Local top 25 thinkers, and other useful resources exploring future planning for a stronger local government workforce.
LGIU member resources
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Attracting talent - how to make local government the employer of choice
Finding the most skilled for the local government workforce is more important than ever, and councils must prioritise becoming the preferred employer in today’s competitive landscape. Find out what drove these local government leaders and experts to a career in local government (and kept them there), and discover their insights for attracting exceptional talent to the local government workforce.
Starting a career in local government today: firsthand perspective
In this article, Alexander Virtue details his unexpected but rewarding career path in local government after undertaking a graduate programme, which has led to his current role as Business Engagement Lead at the London Borough of Sutton. He highlights his experiences in various departments, showcasing his growth, leadership, and the impact he’s made on community initiatives. Read here
The time is now to create the very best local government workforce
Dawn Carter-Mcdonald, Chief Executive of Hackney Council, writes of her rewarding experience in local government, while also highlighting the dilemmas facing the sector around creating a workforce fit for the future. Local democracy and public services are facing significant existential challenges, and Dawn pleads for local government to come together and share strategies to recruit and retain the very best workforce possible. Read here
The experience of joining local government from the private sector: “The most rewarding thing is feeling like I’m having on-the-ground impact”
We spoke with four officers from LGIU-member councils to learn about the experience of moving from private sector careers into local government. We discussed personal motivations, differences between sectors, and the benefits for local government. Read here
Dawn Roberts reflection on local government workforce challenges now and in the future
In this video, Dawn Roberts, Chief Executive of Dumfries and Galloway Council, reflects on the value of the local government workforce, the challenges faced by the workforce and how Scotland is responding to the challenges, and also how the future context for local government will affect the workforce. Watch here
Planning a workforce revolution - practical steps for delivering real change
Through the sharing of expert thinking and exploring best practice across leading councils internationally, others in the sector can be inspired to tackle workforce development challenges and prioritise building the workforce of tomorrow. Discover what these local government leaders and experts think will transform the local government
Redefining workforce planning for councils: It's not just about headcount
This think piece from Derek Madden, CEO at Moorabool Shire Council, Australia, argues that councils must fundamentally redefine workforce planning for the future. They must move from a narrow focus on numbers to a more sophisticated understanding of skills, team dynamics, and sustainable work practices. Read here
How to make real change happen
In this article, Professor Donna Hall explains how a comprehensive, inter-departmental approach is needed to move beyond outdated systems, fostering a culture of questioning and collaboration in public services. Read here
Building the council workforce of tomorrow: 5 key takeaways
This article unpacks key takeaways from our recent global panel on building the local government workforce of tomorrow. Leaning on expertise from leaders worldwide, the discussion highlighted initiatives around championing diversity, embracing tech, and fostering innovation to tackle the future head-on. Read here
Shining a light on the dark art of local government workforce planning
Strategic workforce planning is a vital process and plan for every organisation, particularly local authorities. This briefing is intended to create a shared understanding of what strategic workforce planning is in reality. Read here
Leading the charge with thoughtful leadership
Leading with purpose: Shaping the council workforce of the future
Kath O’Dwyer, Solace Chair, explores the evolving needs of local government’s workforce and emphasises the importance of culture, leadership, and investment in people. She argues for a shift towards values-based leadership and distributed responsibility to build a resilient and inclusive sector fit for the future. Read here
Future local leadership, challenges, and solutions: An Interview with Alicia McKay, Author of Local Legends
In this article, we interview Alicia McKay, a strategy, change and leadership expert working across New Zealand and Australia and author of the book Local Legends: How to Make a Difference in Local Government. Alicia shares her views on the big trends affecting the future of local leadership and what local leaders can do today to be more effective tomorrow. Read here
Executive Live Panel: Building the council workforce of tomorrow
Exploring best practice across leading councils internationally, this Executive Live Panel delved into the topic of workforce development and looked at what councils need to prioritise to build the workforce of tomorrow. Inside you’ll find a recording of the panel discussion, informative briefings, useful collections and insightful blog posts. Explore here
The moral courage needed for future leadership: Interview with Professor Donna Hall
As part of our new interview series for Future Local Lab, LGIU’s Chief Executive Jonathan Carr-West sat down with Professor Donna Hall to discuss her impressive career, what it takes to transform local government for the future and the courage needed in local leadership right now to get the ball rolling. Read here