Research by the Local Government Association (LGA) is clear that strong, early and visible leadership is one of the biggest success factors for local government reorganisation (LGR). A lack of leadership represents a clear risk to delivery.

LGR places significant demands on digital and cyber leadership. New organisations must operate safely from day one, while at the same time planning for several years of transformation.

Councils that have been through LGR have highlighted the importance of Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) leadership as part of delivering LGR. This is also stated in the Blueprint for Modern Digital Government.

Wider senior leadership support across the council is key to setting the ambition and culture for the new unitary authority’s digital agenda.

A key lesson is the need for pragmatic, decisive leadership and space for open conversations about the future vision, especially for technology. Without early discussions about what the future should look like beyond just ‘safe and legal’ requirements, it becomes difficult to engage people or design the right structures for the new organisation. The absence of clear leadership and future-focused dialogue makes it much harder to plan effectively and bring others along on the journey. If I had my time again, having some thought about what we think that new organisation might look like from a technology and data perspective might be helpful.

James Ailward, Head of IT Operations, Dorset Council

 

I can’t stress enough the importance of blogging and communities of practice to share experiences openly, as so many of us in DDaT will be going through the LGR challenge. Being transparent about our activities aligns with the principles of the Local Digital Declaration. Embracing open communication and blogging should be a priority right from the start.

Dave Richardson, ICT and Digital Services Business Manager, Newark and Sherwood District Council

The first 100 days: a practical guide for digital and cyber leaders in LGR

This guide is designed for chief information officers, chief data officers, heads of digital, technology or cyber taking on leadership roles during reorganisation.

It is based on:

  • high uncertainty
  • mixed expectations
  • intense delivery pressure

The aim is to establish control, confidence and direction.

The LGA has also produced a list of ten essential workforce considerations for LGR, a series of high-level, user friendly prompts and handy resources on key things to think about in planning and managing workforce changes during LGR.