The MJ Achievement Awards recently honoured the very best in local government, and Penna was proud to support three significant categories: Corporate Leadership Team of the Year, Chief Executive of the Year, and the prestigious Local Authority of the Year.
Supporting these awards is our way of acknowledging the extraordinary efforts of local government leaders who work tirelessly to improve their communities. Their commitment to innovation, resilience, and effective service delivery aligns perfectly with our values and mission. And after 50 years of delivering to the public sector, we love to share our learning and experience so here's a flavour of the winning councils.
Stockport MBC: Corporate Leadership Team of the Year
Stockport's corporate leadership team exemplifies effective and innovative public service. Their commitment to reducing inequalities in one of England's most polarised local authority areas demonstrates their dedication and skill. The team operates with a clear vision under the Ambitious Stockport plan, prioritising quality service delivery and strong community relationships.
One of the key strengths of Stockport's leadership team includes their integrated approach to health and care, led by Caroline Simpson. This collaborative effort enhances service delivery and fosters innovation, as seen in their award-winning Digital by Design programme. Their neighbourhood working strategy and proactive community support initiatives, such as their response to the cost of living crisis, highlight their comprehensive and compassionate leadership.
Maxine O'Mahoney: Chief Executive of the Year
Breckland DC's Maxine O'Mahoney stands out as a transformative leader. Her people-centric approach, rooted in her extensive HR background, has driven significant cultural and operational shifts within the council. Under her leadership, Breckland navigated complex challenges, including the dissolution of a strategic partnership, revitalising the planning, and building control contract and leading innovative community projects.
Maxine's innovative WorkSmart programme has revolutionised the council's working practices, promoting flexible, remote-enabled work environments that enhance employee satisfaction and service delivery. Her commitment to community and partnership is further demonstrated through initiatives like the Breckland Mobile Food Store and the REST mental health support hub.
Knowsley Council: Local authority of the Year
Knowsley Council's achievements amid significant social and economic challenges are remarkable. Serving in the UK's second most deprived local authority area, their ambitious vision focuses on effective support, inclusive growth, and tackling the climate emergency.
Winning prestigious awards like these brings a host of benefits that resonate beyond the organisation itself. For job seekers, award-winning local authorities are highly attractive. Knowing that a council has been recognised for its excellence gives candidates confidence that they are joining a team that values innovation, leadership, and effective service delivery. This can be a decisive factor for top talent choosing where to apply.
For existing staff, being part of an award-winning team boosts morale and instils a sense of pride. It validates their hard work and dedication, enhancing job satisfaction and loyalty. Employees often feel a renewed sense of purpose and motivation, knowing their contributions are recognised and valued. This positive work environment is crucial for retaining top talent and reducing turnover.
Furthermore, the recognition benefits the personal brands and careers of people in the organisation. Being associated with a celebrated team enhances their professional profiles and can open doors for future career opportunities. It provides a platform for them to showcase their achievements and skills, both within and outside the organisation.
Communities and residents also feel the impact of these awards. As a resident of Brent LBC I can personally attest to the pride and confidence that comes from knowing your local council is recognised for its excellence. It reflects positively on the community, enhancing its reputation and fostering a sense of collective pride. Residents see the tangible benefits in their daily lives, from improved services to innovative community programs.
Winning awards also strengthens the council's brand, positioning it as a leader in the sector. This visibility can attract new partnerships, funding opportunities, and collaborative projects. It underscores the council's commitment to excellence and innovation, building trust and confidence among residents and stakeholders alike.
I'm already looking forward to judging next year's nominations. It's always inspiring to see the incredible work being done across the country, but until then, lets celebrate all this year's finalists and winners. Their achievements remind us of the extraordinary impact that dedicated public servants can have on us. Here's to the ongoing innovation and commitment to excellence that makes local government such a vital part of our lives.
Dawar Hashmi is director, executive search at Penna
