Meet the Leader with Cllr Simon Morgan

For this latest episode of Meet the Leader, host Nick Kilby is joined by Councillor Simon Morgan, Leader of Maldon District Council in Essex.

During the conversation, Cllr Morgan reflects on his varied career before entering local government, including 16 years in the Army followed by a career as a solicitor. He explains how a change in his working life, along with some encouragement from his wife, eventually led him towards local politics and a successful council by-election.

The episode explores how Cllr Morgan’s military experience has influenced his approach to leadership. He discusses the importance of identifying a clear aim, remaining focused on achieving it, and the value of preparation, organisation and communication. He also reflects on learning the workings of local government as a new councillor and the importance of making a meaningful contribution.

Nick and Simon discuss his relatively rapid journey from newly elected councillor to Conservative group leader and, ultimately, Leader of Maldon District Council. Cllr Morgan talks candidly about initially deciding he did not yet have the experience required to become Leader, before later feeling ready to take on the challenge.

A major focus of the conversation is the future of local government in Essex and the proposed reorganisation of councils. Cllr Morgan discusses the opportunities and challenges involved in creating a new Mid Essex unitary authority, bringing district and county council responsibilities together and ensuring residents understand what the changes will mean for their communities.

The conversation also considers the importance of protecting Maldon’s distinctive identity and sense of place. Rather than viewing reorganisation simply as a merger of existing authorities, Cllr Morgan talks about creating something new while ensuring the character of Maldon and its communities is retained.

Nick and Simon also explore the impact of reorganisation on council staff and major services such as adult social care and special educational needs. Cllr Morgan stresses the importance of clear communication with employees and residents, while recognising both the uncertainty surrounding the process and the opportunities it could create.

Looking more broadly at leadership, Cllr Morgan reflects on the relationship between elected members and council officers. He explains why council leadership relies on relationships, persuasion and what he describes as a form of “soft power”, working closely with senior officers to turn political priorities into practical delivery.

Away from the council chamber, he also shares some of the challenges of switching off from public life, balancing his continuing legal work with council responsibilities and, more recently, being drawn into his wife’s enthusiasm for gardening.

It is a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, public service, local government reform and clear communication, as Cllr Morgan looks ahead to a period of significant change for Maldon and local government across Essex.

Hosted by Cratus Group‘s Executive Chairman Nick Kilby, the Meet the Leader podcast is a space to learn about the leaders in local government, highlighting the tremendous work they do for the communities they serve. You can listen to the previous episodes ⁠⁠on Spotify here⁠ and wherever else you listen to your podcasts.