Leadership within local government has undergone a profound transformation.
The chief executives and senior directors of today are no longer solely responsible for managing services within budgets, they are ambassadors for their places, bridge builders across organisations and problem solvers navigating increasingly complex challenges. From financial pressures and workforce demands to community expectations and partnership working, the issues facing councils are rarely straightforward and seldom have simple solutions. Yet the daily demands of leadership offer little time for the reflection and strategic thinking such challenges require.
Our Local Government Executive Leadership Programme (LGEL) was created to provide that vital thinking space. Designed specifically for senior leaders, it aims to equip participants with the resilience, strategic insight and collaborative capability needed to lead effectively in a rapidly changing environment. Grounded in academic research and shaped by the experiences of local authority executives, the programme explores three critical leadership pillars: resilience, collaboration and insightful thinking. These themes are brought to life through expert-led workshops, action learning sets and peer-to-peer discussions.
Professor Steven Griggs of Staffordshire University facilitates the programme, alongside guest experts including leadership wellbeing specialist Dr Dorian Dugmore, Professor Helen Sullivan, Dean of The Australian National University and Google's global head of creativity, Kirk Vallis. Together, they offer participants fresh perspectives on innovation, collaboration, wellbeing and public policy, challenging conventional approaches and encouraging new ways of thinking.
This year we are excited to offer 12 fully funded places to senior executives from local government presenting an exceptional opportunity to invest in personal growth, meaningful learning and connection. The trusted environment created during the programme allows participants to gain an influential network of peers, mentors and sector leaders, enriched by fireside conversations with current and former chief executives.
Feedback consistently highlights that stepping away from day-to-day pressures to reflect with peers is among the programme's greatest benefits. More than a leadership development course, LGEL represents an investment in the future of the sector, developing confident, connected leaders equipped to deliver lasting impact in an increasingly demanding world.
With some places already booked you can express your interest by contacting robert.boyles@csltd.org.uk or for more information visit https://commercialservicesgroup.com/lgel/
Nicola Monk is Group Executive Director, Commercial Services Group
