When I became a trustee of the Solace Foundation two years ago I was particularly interested in playing my part in retaining talented young people within the local government sector.
I strongly believe that the society has a key role to play in supporting and encouraging local government officers at all levels. Somewhere out there at the start of their careers are our future chief executives and Solace presidents and it is important for us to engage with these talented individuals early.
As part of pursuing this ambition I became the lead trustee for the foundation's harnessing talent workstream and last year fronted a pilot springboard programme working with ten graduates and middle managers. We have now taken the opportunity to review what worked well, have taken on board comments from the participants and made some improvements to offer a very attractive leadership development programme.
Beginning my own career in local government leisure services over 20 years ago I would say the greatest challenge and opportunity was at the point of moving from a service expert to a 'general manager'. Working corporately with a good handle on the organisation's bigger picture plus acquiring some excellent political antennae are crucial parts of this transition.
From this initial step up to head of service I have now spent over eleven years as a director in two local authorities. I thoroughly enjoy working in a wider role, being able to join up services to improve overall service delivery, avoid duplication for our customers and continue to be more efficient as 'one council'. Looking back now I believe that being part of a support network, such as the springboard programme, with a top class mentor and access to workshops on key topics would have been invaluable to me at that transitional point in my career.
Springboard can be whatever opportunity you want it to be. Some core parts of the programme will pair you up with an individual mentor, provide some informative and engaging workshops and give you plenty of chances for networking at many Solace events normally reserved for chief executives and senior managers. We are seeking individuals who can demonstrate that little bit extra, individuals who have the spark, who want to be in control of shaping their own career development and will use springboard to open doors. We are looking for our leaders of the future.
Interest in the programme has been very high. We are expecting competition for the 20 places to be keen. If you have what it takes and can see how this programme can help you realise your future career ambitions then we would love to hear from you. If you have any further questions about the programme, don't hesitate to contact andy.hollingsworth@solace.org.uk.
Averil Price is director of safer communities at Chelmsford city council. She is also joint lead on the springboard 2014 programme for Solace Foundation board of trustees.
