Local Government ExplainedLocal government careers: Case studies and resources for local government
Sid Hayward, LGIU
This week, we present inspirational examples of local government careers, plus curated LGIU resources on skills and support for all local government workers.
This week, we present inspirational examples of local government careers, plus curated LGIU resources on skills and support for all local government workers.
Have your own example to share, get in touch!
Inspirational career examples from the local government sector
“Local government is the best job that you can have” – Jane Stroud, CEO of Kiama Municipal Council
Ever wondered how a council CEO navigates the ever-changing local government landscape in Australia? Asking ourselves the same question, Thomas and Hannah from LGIU Australia spoke with Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud about her extensive career in local government as well as the future of Kiama Municipal Council.
Reflecting on 35 years of public service: Cllr Ian Wingfield’s journey in Southwark Council
In this interview, Ian Wingfield, the London Borough of Southwark’s longest-serving councillor, reflects on 35 years in local government and the demands and rewards of his post.
Leading through uncertainty: Shaping Shropshire’s future with Chief Executive Andy Begley
Andy Begley, Chief Executive of Shropshire Council, shares his journey from care assistant to local government leadership. He discusses pivotal career moments, the importance of embracing uncertainty, and the unique challenges facing Shropshire, including service delivery over a large, rural area, an ageing population, and economic development, highlighting Shropshire’s attractiveness for living and business.
Jane O’Donnell, Chief Executive of COSLA – “Privileged to work across local government”
In this interview, Jane O’Donnell, Chief Executive of COSLA, reflects on her career in Scottish local government, what she hopes to achieve as COSLA Chief Executive, what she hopes to see for local government financial sustainability, and the rewards of working in the sector.
Service, activism and politics: The inspirational story of Cllr Helen Wright
In this interview, Helen Wright, Dundee City Council representative and the city’s first female Lord Provost, reflects on more than four decades of work in local government and her support for women in politics and the wider community.
From food market to community cohesion: Saqlain Choudry’s inspiring work in local politics
In this interview, we talk to Cllr Saqlain Choudry, winner of LGIU’s 2023 Young Councillor of the Year award, about the work he has been involved in at Brent Council, motivations for getting into local politics and the day-to-day realities of being a young Councillor.
Resources on local government careers
LGIU’s resources for new councillors
Local government is complex, so LGIU has support and information and training for new councillors across a wide range of unfamiliar policy areas to help develop the skills that will boost their effectiveness. If you are a recently elected councillor or an officer supporting them, we want to help you hit the ground running, develop your training and skillsand take a deep dive into the issues.
Advanced report writing for committees and cabinet
Enhance your report writing skills and develop the confidence to write clear, concise, and impactful reports for committees and cabinet with this LGIU training. Apply structured frameworks and techniques to ensure your reports are well-organised and easy to navigate. Craft compelling arguments and recommendations supported by evidence and data. Each section of the training will include informal writing practice so that you learn and practice throughout the session.
Getting the best from your workforce: An introduction to recruitment and retention
The public sector is facing challenges with recruitment and retention of staff. This briefing answers some of the most FAQs around recruitment and retention processes to help readers determine where to focus their efforts internally while wrestling with these workforce challenges.
In it together: mental health support for local government workers
This briefing highlights examples of community and workforce mental health support in Ireland and Australia. Also looking at how the psychological model of compassion can help local government leaders lessen the impact of mental ill health on staff.
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