Author Profile

Michael Burton

Michael Burton

Michael Burton is editorial director of The MJ

Articles by Michael Burton

Why the Total Place bandwagon should roll again

By Michael Burton | 15 May 2025

John Denham was Labour’s communities secretary 15 years before Angela Rayner. He tells Michael Bu...

The paradox of populism

By Michael Burton | 23 April 2025

When it comes to public spending, left and right are in agreement says Michael Burton.

A life-changing move for the best

By Michael Burton | 04 March 2025

As retiring Essex CC chief executive Gavin Jones contemplates spending more time with his family ...

Having your cake and eating it

By Michael Burton | 18 February 2025

As ministers struggle to find capital from the cash-strapped public finances to deliver infrastru...

Devolution is Labour's unfinished business

By Michael Burton | 17 December 2024

An empowered and efficient local government has always been seen by Labour as a key driver for re...

Stick to the long-term, Sir Keir

By Michael Burton | 11 December 2024

While unforeseen events can knock a new government off course, ministers need to ensure they keep...

Reluctant chief who became a winner

By Michael Burton | 05 December 2024

Maxine O’Mahony, winner of The MJ’s Achievement Awards 2024 chief executive of the Year award, in...

Innovating to survive

By Michael Burton | 07 November 2024

Scottish council HR professionals meet next week for their annual conference against a backdrop o...

Get ready to shine at The MJ Awards 2025

By Michael Burton | 17 October 2024

You are brilliant and your services are great – so now is your chance to tell your peers just wha...

Peering into the black hole

By Michael Burton | 15 October 2024

How might local government fare from the Budget? Michael Burton dips into last week’s Green Budge...