As we draw the curtain on 2024, it’s a fitting moment to reflect on the past year and acknowledge the enduring partnerships that make our work in local government recruitment so meaningful. To our valued clients, thank you for your unwavering trust and collaboration. It has been a dynamic and transformative year, and we are proud to have played a role in strengthening leadership across the sector. trust and collaboration. It has been a dynamic and transformative year, and we are proud to have played a role in strengthening leadership across the sector.
This year was marked by notable milestones and trends that influenced how councils approach governance and leadership. In March, the local government elections set a tone of renewal, resulting in a very healthy changeover of elected members. This wave of new leadership brought a clear “back to basics” mindset, an approach that has had a widespread impact on council priorities and strategies. Many councils have shifted their focus to what local government does best: delivering essential services and improving the quality of life for local communities. We’ve seen a concerted effort to streamline operations and do less of the non-core activities that, while well-meaning, may have detracted from delivering on foundational objectives.
A key theme throughout the year has been a greater emphasis on listening to and involving the community. There is a significant uplift in interest in ensuring that the community’s voice is woven into strategy, planning, and decision-making. Councils have actively sought to bring public input into the development of strategic plans and have worked hard to achieve outcomes that align with what the community truly values. This shift has underscored the importance of transparency, responsiveness, and collaboration, creating a more robust and participatory governance environment.
Our work at Leading Roles has mirrored these trends and CEO recruitment has become more strategic and aligned with councils’ evolving needs. We’ve noticed a strong preference for leaders who can navigate complexity, adapt to emerging challenges, and deliver clear, measurable outcomes for their communities. The demand is not just for experienced executives, but for leaders who demonstrate a deep understanding of local government’s core responsibilities and a commitment to community-centric governance.
Equally, we’ve observed that councils are looking for CEOs who can bring diverse perspectives to the table. There is a clear move toward embracing varied leadership styles and backgrounds, reflecting a broader understanding of the value that diversity brings to decision-making and problem-solving. This year, the focus on adaptability and strategic resilience has never been more pronounced. Councils are facing shifting economic, environmental, and social landscapes, and they seek leaders who can guide them confidently through these complexities.
As we turn our eyes toward 2025, we remain deeply committed to partnering with you to attract and appoint leaders who will drive progress and uphold the values of local governance. We are excited to continue fostering connections that make a tangible difference and empower councils to thrive.
Thank you for your continued support. Wishing you a festive season filled with joy and a new year brimming with possibilities and success.
Warmest regards,
Mark Ogston