Author Profile

Graeme McDonald

Graeme McDonald

Director of the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives

Articles by Graeme McDonald

Workforce development is an urgent priority

By By Graeme McDonald | 09 July 2025

Managing director of senior officers' organisation Solace, Graeme McDonald, says 94% of councils ...

This could be the moment to let go of nostalgia

By Graeme McDonald | 02 June 2025

Leadership changes are a chance to reset boundaries and expectations, 'especially in a sector whe...

Change: Maximising the chances of success

By Graeme McDonald | 15 April 2025

Your employees and the culture you create with them will decide if change is a success or failure...

Governance under strain

By Graeme McDonald | 04 March 2025

'Holding on to our professional integrity, seeking the advice and support of trusted colleagues, ...

The risk of just rearranging those deckchairs

By Graeme McDonald | 22 January 2025

Graeme McDonald says that unless the sector comes together to argue for reform that truly changes...

A divided sector would do little to further the reputation of councils

By Graeme McDonald | 03 December 2024

The coming weeks promise much and may disappoint many, says Graeme McDonald. 'But rather than cre...

Solace: We want our approach to fit local government now and in the future

By Graeme McDonald | 15 October 2024

As delegates get ready to attend this week's Solace Summit in Manchester, Graeme McDonald says th...

Time to change

By By Graeme McDonald | 04 September 2024

The Government needs councils if it wants to deliver on its priorities so change for the sector i...

Putting councils at strategy's core

By Graeme McDonald | 30 July 2024

Local authorities, combined or not, will inescapably play a significant role in the success or fa...

The new Government has the chance to reboot the long-outdated council finance system

By Graeme McDonald | 04 June 2024

Without more support we can expect another 20 councils to be added to the list of those receiving...