Data, Devolution and the Future of Local Government: Insights with Mo Baines & Jason Lowther
In this episode of the WME Podcast, Rebecca Davis, Chief Executive of West Midlands Employers, is joined by Jason Lowther, Director at the University of Birmingham’s Institute of Local Government Studies, and Mo Baines, Chief Executive of APSE.Together they explore how councils can make better use of data and analytics, the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence in local government, and the role of devolution in shaping the future of communities. They also discuss why a national workforce strategy is urgently needed to address skills gaps and strengthen local government for the years ahead.
--------
26:49
--------
26:49
PS I ❤️ You Unplugged: The power of small habits: Building resilience and wellbeing
In this episode of PS I ❤️ You Unplugged, we explore the power of small, consistent habits in building resilience, wellbeing, and performance.Matthew from West Midlands Employers is joined by Kat Thorne, The Morning Game Changer, who shares her personal journey from corporate burnout to creating lasting behaviour change. Together, they discuss how individuals and organisations can embed positive daily practices that drive long-term results.💡 Key discussion points:The impact of small daily habits on resilience and wellbeingThe role of accountability in sustaining changeHow organisations can support healthy routines in the workplacePractical strategies for improving focus, energy, and performanceThis episode offers valuable insights for leaders, managers, and professionals who want to strengthen personal resilience, support workforce wellbeing, and foster a culture of sustainable performance.
--------
19:44
--------
19:44
PS I ♥️ You Unplugged: People before profit: Rethinking agency provision in Local Government
In this episode of PS I ❤️ You Unplugged, Rebecca Davis (Chief Executive, West Midlands Employers) is joined by Brad Sinclair (Managing Director, Opus People Solutions) to explore how councils can transform agency provision into a strategic asset. They unpack the challenges and opportunities of temporary recruitment, share insights from the WMTemps framework, and show how investing in people can deliver better value, stronger communities, and a future-fit public sector workforce.
--------
27:20
--------
27:20
PS I ♥️ You Unplugged: Shaping talent, transformation & trust in Local Government
In this inspiring and down-to-earth episode of PS I Heart You Unplugged, host Rebecca Davis (Chief Executive, West Midlands Employers) sits down with Tim Johnson, Chief Executive of the City of Wolverhampton Council, for a candid conversation on the future of local government.With over 30 years of experience, Tim shares personal stories of career highs and hard-won lessons, his belief in values-led leadership, and why investing in people is key to building resilient organisations. From developing future leaders to navigating the political landscape and driving regional collaboration, Tim offers practical advice and hopeful insights for public sector professionals at all stages of their careers.
--------
23:46
--------
23:46
PS I ♥️ You Unplugged: Leading through reform Ian Miller on the Future of Local Government
In this episode of The Public Sector I Heart You Unplugged podcast, Rebecca Davis, Chief Executive of West Midlands Employers, sits down with Ian Miller, Chief Executive of Wyre Forest District Council. With over 25 years in local government, Ian shares his leadership journey, from shaping key legislation in Wales to driving shared services and transformation in Worcestershire.Together, they explore pressing issues facing the sector: local government reorganisation, the reality behind devolution, finance reform, and the importance of keeping services truly local.
Join us for a podcast that places the public sector at the heart of every conversation. In each episode, we explore the world of public sector work, bringing you impactful insights and solutions-driven conversations. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of public service or just interested in how things work behind the scenes, you will find valuable perspectives, advice, innovative ideas, and stories that make a difference!
UK