In this SEEdPOD episode, Ruth talks to organisation development specialist Sara Turton about what high performing councils do differently, especially during local government reorganisation and change. Sara shares four foundations of performance: clear leadership and management standards, visible progression and career pathways, genuine inclusion and belonging, and smart use of data to turn insight into action. Packed with practical ideas you can start this month, this conversation is for anyone who wants to build a culture where people can do their best work.

This episode of SEEpOD is produced by South East Employers, the regional employers organisation for local government in the South East, supporting councils and partners to lead, manage and develop people well. Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, culture and workforce change.

Executive Business and Leadership Coach Sue Noble joins us for an enlightening conversation on the transformative power of coaching during organisational change. With insights drawn from her extensive experience and her book "Coaching People Through Organisational Change," Sue shares the profound impact coaching can have on personal and professional growth, especially for managers and senior leaders. Learn how asking incisive questions can unlock new perspectives, break habitual thought patterns, and lead to those life-changing 'aha' moments. I, too, reflect on my coaching journey and the invaluable insights it has provided in navigating new responsibilities and enhancing my career.

We also tackle common misconceptions about coaching, clarifying its broader organisational benefits beyond individual focus. Discover how coaching can improve performance, reduce absenteeism, and boost staff satisfaction, even amidst significant change. The potential of group coaching versus team coaching is explored, emphasising the importance of open dialogue and personal expression. While acknowledging that coaching might not be the universal solution for every situation, its capacity to give individuals a voice and facilitate organisational cohesion is undeniable. Tune in to uncover how coaching serves as a powerful catalyst for navigating change within local government organisations.

Join Sarah and Ruth for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of devolution. Ruth draws from her extensive experience as Chief Executive of SEE and Deputy Chief Executive of the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority to explore the contrasting agendas and challenges faced by different regions. From growth-driven ambitions in the South East to the focus on deficit reduction in South Yorkshire, Ruth offers a unique perspective on the necessity of understanding spatial geography and the identity of strategic authorities. With the introduction of elected mayors shaking up the political dynamics, Ruth emphasises the importance of establishing a clear role for combined authorities right from the start to effectively navigate these transformations.