An award-winning public affairs lobbyist and former ministerial adviser has been named as new head of the leading local government think-tank. Andy Sawford has been confirmed as the new chief executive of theLocal Government Information Unit (LGIU) to take over from Dr Tim Thorogood, who is leaving to become chief executive of the Falkland Islands Government. Mr Sawford, who will take over in the new year, was an adviser to former local government minister, Phil Hope. He is currently director for Westminster lobbying firm, Connect Public Affairs, where his work has included advising organisations such as the National Association of Local Councils (NALC). He has led award-winning campaigns, including a joint bid between police authorities and councils to stop the creation of regional ‘super-forces'. Mr Sawford also helped establish the LGIU-sponsored All-party Parliamentary Group, and shaped the unit's work on the local government White Paper and Bill. Mr Sawford told The MJ he hoped to raise the unit's profile and develop work on high-profile issues. He said: ‘I want to see things turned on their head. Community governance is the "big idea", and we should be thinking more broadly about service delivery. The police Green Paper next year is an opportunity to take forward community safety. It's an area where innovation and thought is much needed. We should be a hugely influential force in local government.' LGIU chairman, Dave Wilcox, said: ‘Mr Sawford brings experience of providing services to councils and his work to improve the central-local dialogue is an example of his innovative approach. I am looking forward to working with him to consolidate our reputation for providing excellent services and influencing local government thinking.'
