Welcome back to Governance Matters! Join us in our first episode of Season 2 as we welcome Robin Tuddenham, President of Solace, to the podcast. In our conversation, Robin shares his expertise on the vital roles of chief executives, section 151 officers, and monitoring officers, and how they work together to ensure effective council operations. This is captured in the newly republished guidance surrounding the "golden triangle" of local government governance. We explore why maintaining integrity, impartiality, and clarity is more critical than ever in today's scrutinised environment.Robin sheds light on the intricate world of governance within local authorities, addressing the complexities and challenges officers face in statutory duties and ethical decision-making. From financial management and governance issues to regeneration schemes and procurement processes, he highlights the importance of a robust ethical framework and the risks posed by governance failures. Robin emphasises the value of experience, continuous training, and a collaborative team approach to managing these challenges, ensuring local authorities meet their statutory responsibilities effectively.We dive into the essential nature of statutory officers and the systemic erosion of corporate functions in local councils. We explore the significant interplay between frontline and "back office" functions and the necessity for clear governance structures and solid political relationships. Robin also shares his thoughts on the potential role of AI in governance, the urgent need for a more robust standards regime, and the importance of legislative updates to keep pace with modern societal dynamics. This episode is an insightful exploration of change and innovation in governance, all while upholding the core principles of ethical and effective public service. Guide to the Golden Triangle: https://solace.org.uk/guide-to-the-golden-triangle/If you are a member of SEE and have any questions related to Governance or HR issues facing your organisation, please get in touch at
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