Our World is Local with Graham Farrant
In this episode, Heather Jameson and Nick Kilby are joined by Graham Farrant, former Chief Executive of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, to explore the realities of delivering one of the UK’s largest local government reorganisations.
Drawing on his experience leading the creation of BCP Council, Graham shares practical lessons on what it really takes to bring multiple authorities together. From programme management and political change to service integration, IT systems and organisational culture, he offers a candid account of the challenges and opportunities that come with creating a new council.
With local government reorganisation gathering pace across England, the discussion examines the importance of investing in programme management, managing workforce and financial pressures, harmonising services, and maintaining day-to-day operations while delivering transformational change. Graham also reflects on how events such as the COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of a newly formed authority and why councils embarking on reorganisation should view it as a long-term opportunity rather than a short-term exercise.
An insightful conversation for anyone involved in local government, devolution or organisational transformation, packed with practical advice for councils preparing for the next wave of local government reorganisation.
Hosted by Cratus Group Executive Chairman Nick Kilby and the Editor of The MJ, Heather Jameson, the ‘Our World is Local’ podcast is a space to learn about the key figures in local government, highlighting the tremendous work they do for the communities they serve. You can listen to the previous episodes here.
You can listen to the previous episodes on Spotify here and wherever else you listen to your podcasts.
