Despite making up 78% of the local government workforce, women account for only 17% of local authority leaders and 33% of council chief executives – statistics which have hardly changed for a decade. Meanwhile, following the 2019 council elections, just 35% of councillors are female, further representing lack of meaningful progress for women in Local Government. In the context of constitutional change and devolution, it is more important than ever that leadership teams in local government are fully representative of the populations they serve.

Following hugely successful events in London, in Manchester and online over the past three years, Women in Local Government returns online and in London in 2021 to offer practical advice and coaching on how to address the barriers affecting your progression and further develop your career in times of change.

2021 delegates will have the option of attending in-person in London or online. Any social-distancing requirements necessary at the time will be in place at the venue, with the safety of delegates and speakers at the heart of the day.

All delegates will have access to the Women in Local Government online event platform, which will enable you to explore on-demand materials which will supplement your learning experience and help you focus on the topics most relevant to you. 

Why attend?

• Identify the unique leadership challenges and opportunities facing women in local government today
• Learn how successful women negotiate for what they need to be effective leaders
• Gain a deeper understanding of the skills, qualities and attributes needed to be a successful leader
• Raise the visibility of women as senior leaders in local government
• Create a lasting network of women leaders who are effecting change across local government

2020 Speakers included: 

• Councillor Rachael Robathan, Leader, Westminster City Council
• Councillor Sharon Thompson, Cabinet Member for Homes and Neighbourhoods, Birmingham City Council
• Dame Margaret Hodge, MP for Barking
• Councillor Sue Baxter, Chairman, the National Association of Local Councils (NALC)
• Councillor Marianne Overton MBE, Vice Chair, Local Government Association, Leader, LGA Independent Group & Vice-Chair, Women’s Local Government Society
• Councillor Mrs. Lesley Clarke OBE, Chairman, Women’s Local Government Society, Chairman, Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire Authority
• Susan Parsonage, Chief Executive, Wokingham Council
• Cath Baxter, Professional Voice and Public Speaking Consultant & former Head of Voice, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts

Who should attend?

This event is aimed at all those who aspire to move into a leadership role in local government or those already in a senior role looking to progress. If you are passionate about, and committed to, improving your own performance, and that of your team and your organisation, then this event is for you.

Registration

Registration for Women in Local Government is now open.

Public sector rate: 1 place: £295 + VAT | 4 places or more: £250 + VAT
Private sector rate: 1 place: £695 + VAT

Register here to secure your place