The recent local elections have brought about a notable shift in the political composition and, in a good number of cases, leadership of councils across the UK. Reform UK has moved from holding no councils to gaining control of ten and becoming the largest party in several others. While much of the post-election commentary has centred on the national implications, the impact on the day-to-day operation of local government is more immediate.
Councils now face the dual pressures of adjusting to new political leadership and doing so with many newly elected members who may lack familiarity with the realities of council governance and structures. conversely, the expectations of the new elected membership may well be unfamiliar to the appointed officials. Notably, many councillors are stepping into public office for the first time and this moment, marked by significant change and varying levels of preparedness, poses very real challenges.
Political transitions of this magnitude always extend beyond elected officials and their chief executives; they impact the entire ecosystem of local government. Senior leadership teams and councils’ partner organisations are all navigating the complexities of adapting to new ways of thinking and working while to striving maintain service continuity and public trust. Officers will need, quite rapidly, to be providing sound, impartial advice to new politicians, whilst simultaneously building relationships and establishing clarity of purpose across a range of challenging issues – not least local government reorganisation.
The Leadership Centre has spent over two decades supporting local authorities during times of political change. Our work is focused on:
- Strengthening Member-Officer working relationships built on mutual respect and understanding.
- Supporting new administrations to align and mobilise around purpose, values, and shared outcomes.
- Creating space for cross-sector collaboration across complex systems and places.
- Helping leaders—whether elected or appointed—navigate the ambiguities and constraints that accompany political and organisational transitions.
What we offer is distinct from, but complementary to, the support provided by organisations such as the SOLACE, Local Government Association and the Centre for Governance and Scrutiny. Our expertise and emphasis are on the adaptive, relational, and systemic dimensions of change.
It is also clear that some of the policy agendas now being introduced may bring significant cultural shifts within councils—ranging from changes to working practices to differing approaches on topics like climate action, diversity, and organisational priorities. As these unfold, the need for constructive dialogue, shared purpose, and adaptive leadership becomes even more critical.
We know that the early weeks and months of a new administration are pivotal—not only for setting the tone, but for laying the groundwork for effective governance. At the Leadership Centre, we are here to help local government leaders navigate this time of change with clarity, cohesion, and purpose.
If a conversation would be helpful—whether to explore bespoke support or to convene peer groups grappling with similar challenges—please do get in touch.