Meet The Leader

Meet the Leader with Heather Kidd

For this latest episode of Meet the Leader, host Nick Kilby is joined by Councillor Heather Kidd MBE, Leader of Shropshire Council. During the conversation, Cllr Kidd reflects on how her rural upbringing in Sussex, her career as a teacher and her involvement in village life led her into local government. She talks about first being elected in 1996, becoming Leader of South Shropshire District Council, and the passion for rural communities that has shaped her political career and earned her an MBE. The episode explores the particular challenges facing rural areas, from poor mobile and broadband connectivity to limited public transport, housing pressures and the difficulty of delivering essential services across a large and sparsely populated county. Cllr Kidd also explains why maintaining strong, sustainable villages means providing affordable homes for local people and supporting the schools, shops, pubs and community networks that enable rural life to thrive. Nick and Heather also discuss Shropshire’s experience of local government reorganisation, including the loss of organisational knowledge, the difficulties of integrating systems and services, and the long-term financial consequences of decisions made during the creation of the unitary authority. Drawing on years spent in opposition, she shares her determination to build a more open, inclusive and accountable council that values scrutiny and works in genuine partnership with communities. The conversation also looks at the practical changes now being made at Shropshire Council, from improving customer services and rebuilding relationships with towns and parishes to strengthening procurement, reviewing major contracts and transforming the way the council maintains its 3,200 miles of roads. It is a thoughtful and candid conversation about rural leadership, financial responsibility and the importance of listening to communities while delivering visible, lasting change. 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.

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Meet the Leader with Cllr Bill Revans

In this episode of Meet the Leader, host Nick Kilby is joined by Cllr Bill Revans, Leader of Somerset Council. Bill reflects on his journey from teaching history in Somerset to entering local politics, and how his experience in education has shaped his collaborative and people-focused approach to leadership. The conversation explores the creation of the new unitary Somerset Council, the challenges of bringing five organisations together and the importance of focusing on outcomes, culture and residents rather than becoming distracted by process. Bill also shares his long-term vision for Somerset, including retaining more young people, improving housing, transport and digital connectivity, attracting inward investment and responding to the county’s changing demographics. It is a thoughtful conversation about public service, local government reorganisation and building a more connected and prosperous future for Somerset. 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.

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Meet the Leader with Cllr Jonathan Lester

For this latest episode of Meet the Leader, host Nick Kilby is joined by Jonathan Lester, Leader of Herefordshire Council. During the conversation, Jonathan reflects on his journey into local government, including his return from Australia and his dedication to public service as both an elected member and council officer. The episode explores his long-term vision for Herefordshire: driving economic growth and prosperity for all Herefordians, attracting greater investment, improving infrastructure, and addressing historic underinvestment in public transport and rail connectivity. Jonathan also discusses the council’s ambition to begin the first phase of the western bypass this year, alongside a wider focus on creating more opportunities for young people. Nick and Jonathan also discuss the importance of making Herefordshire Council financially sustainable for the long term, ensuring it can continue to deliver high-quality, good-value services for residents while protecting the county’s environment. It is an inspiring conversation about place, ambition and the importance of building a stronger, more sustainable future for Herefordshire. 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.

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Meet the Leader with Cllr David Thomas

For this latest episode of Meet the Leader, host Nick Kilby is joined by Councillor David Thomas, Leader of Torbay Council. During this conversation, Cllr Thomas talks to Nick about his remarkable journey from professional entertainer and musician to local government leader, reflecting on how he first became involved in politics, his early baptism of fire as Chair of Planning, and the lessons he has learned from more than a decade as group leader. The episode also explores the realities of leadership in local government today, from managing political groups and rising public expectations, to the challenge of balancing immediate resident concerns with long-term place-making. Cllr Thomas shares his approach to building consensus, focusing on delivery, and ensuring that core services such as children’s services and adult social care are strong enough to support wider ambitions for Torbay. Nick and David also discuss Torbay’s ambitious regeneration programme, including investment in town centres, Brixham Fish Market, Crossways in Paignton, and the council’s work to attract private sector partners and major new investment into the English Riviera. It is an inspiring conversation about responsibility, resilience and what it takes to deliver real change for residents. 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.

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Meet the Leader with Cllr Rob Waltham MBE

In this episode of Meet the Leader, we travel to North Lincolnshire to sit down with Cllr Rob Waltham MBE, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, for a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation about leadership, public service and the realities of modern local government. Rob reflects on his unconventional journey into politics, being “conned” into becoming a councillor in his twenties, and how early life experiences shaped his values and long-standing passion for children’s services. He shares candid insights into what it really means to lead a council: building trust with officers, navigating difficult decisions, carrying the weight of responsibility, and maintaining focus on people rather than systems. The discussion explores Rob’s rise to council leader, the dynamics of internal party politics, the challenges and rewards of long-term leadership, and his experience standing as a mayoral candidate. Along the way, he speaks openly about moments of doubt, loyalty, resilience and the profound impact local government can have on individual lives. This is an honest and thoughtful episode about service, values and why - despite its pressures - local government remains one of the most powerful ways to make a difference. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Steve Pitt

In this episode of Meet the Leader, we sit down with Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, to explore an unconventional route into local government – from running an independent music venue to leading one of the UK’s most distinctive island cities. Steve shares how his lifelong passion for music, arts and culture has shaped his political philosophy, and why he believes culture should never be seen as a “nice to have”, but as a powerful driver of regeneration, opportunity and social change. From Portsmouth’s vibrant grassroots arts scene and street art reputation, to the role of football, the Navy and veterans’ communities in civic life, this conversation paints a rich picture of culture in its broadest sense. We also delve into Steve’s views on devolution, local government finance, and the realities of leading a council under sustained pressure – including the frustrations of pace, resource constraints, and public expectations in an age of instant change. Along the way, he reflects on the importance of political literacy, why civics education matters, and what genuinely motivates people to step into public service. The episode closes with a refreshingly grounded take on legacy. For Steve, leadership isn’t about plaques on walls or named buildings – it’s about whether, at the end of the day, he’s made a positive difference, even for just one person. An honest, passionate and thoughtful conversation about place, purpose and what leadership in local government really looks like. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Tudor Evans

In this episode, we sit down with Cllr Tudor Evans, one of the most experienced and enduring figures in local government. With over three decades of service, including five terms as Leader of Plymouth City Council, Cllr Tudor shares the journey that brought him into politics, the challenges and triumphs of leading a city through economic transformation, and why he’s still as passionate today as when he first stood for election in 1987. We explore: Plymouth’s regeneration from naval decline to a city of culture, innovation, and industry The personal and political resilience needed to lead through economic headwinds How local government can catalyse investment and growth And what it really means to believe in – and bet on – your city With humour, clarity, and no shortage of insight, Tudor offers a masterclass in civic leadership and long-term vision. If you care about place leadership, economic renewal, and what it takes to build lasting local impact, this is one to tune into. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Shantanu Rajawat

In the final Meet the Leader episode of 2024, Nick chats with Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of Hounslow Council. Shantanu shares the journey that lead him to leading one of London’s most dynamic boroughs. They discuss the challenges of leadership, the importance of empowering young people, and bold ambitions for growth and opportunity in Hounslow. A must-listen for anyone passionate about community leadership and local government! 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.

Meet the Leader: 2024 in Review

In this special episode of Meet the Leader, Nick reflects on the incredible leaders that have featured on the show this year. From the leaders of BCP Council right up to Leeds City Council, he shares their key moments and insights in this yearly round up. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Nick Adams-King

In this episode of Meet the Leader, we sit down with Nick Adams-King, the newly appointed leader of Hampshire County Council. Nick shares his unconventional journey from running drag cabaret restaurants to navigating the complex world of local government. We explore his experiences as a business owner and the challenges he faced balancing public service with personal milestones. Nick delves into his vision for Hampshire, addressing issues like deprivation, sustainable development, and local government restructuring. He reflects on the importance of community-driven leadership and the resilience required to manage the council through turbulent times. Join us for an insightful conversation about leadership, change, and making a real difference at the local level. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen

In this episode Nick is joined by Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen, Leader of Breckland Council. Sam shares his journey from a young councillor to council leader, inspired by his mother’s community work. They discuss the unique challenges young people face in politics, balancing career and public service, and Sam’s approach to mentorship. Sam highlights his vision for Breckland, focusing on community-driven planning and the award-winning “Inspiring Communities” program, tackling social issues like mental health and food insecurity. As chairman of the District Councils Network, Sam also gives an insider look at advocating for local councils on a national level. This episode reveals the passion and dedication behind local government leadership. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Andy Mellen

For this episode of Meet the Leader, host Nick Kilby is joined by Councillor Andy Mellen, Leader of Mid Suffolk District Council - the only council in the country outright controlled by the Green Party. In this episode, Cllr Mellen talks about his journey into local government and his role as both as County and District councillor, while diving into the details of his fascinating career that saw him working in education and development in Nigeria and Malawi for six years. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Kam Rai

For this latest episode of Meet the Leader, host Nick Kilby is joined by Councillor Kam Rai, who became the new Leader of the London Borough of Redbridge back in July. Cllr Rai had spent six years as Deputy Leader of the Council, and became Leader of the Council after then-leader Jas Athwal (who appeared in the inaugural episode of this series back in January 2023) became the new MP for Ilford South at the 2024 General Election. In this conversation, Cllr Rai talks about his journey into local government and his vision for the borough. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Petrina Lees

For this latest episode of Meet the Leader, host Nick Kilby is joined by Councillor Petrina Lees, Leader of Uttlesford District Council. Cllr Lees represents the Residents for Uttlesford group who have controlled the council since 2019, with her becoming the councils first female leader back in December 2021. During this episode, Cllr Lees talks about her journey into local government which began at the parish level after a 30-year career in nursing. With a passion for community involvement, Cllr Lees works tirelessly for her local residents and is not afraid to challenge the norms. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Peter Marland

In this latest episode of Meet the Leader, host Nick Kilby is joined by the Leader of Milton Keynes Council, Councillor Peter Marland. Cllr Marland has been a part of the council for ten years having begun his career in finance, and in this episode he shares his journey into local government which led him to becoming Leader in 2014. In this conversation, Cllr Marland talks about the importance of long-term planning, the future of the city-region and the unexpected story around being issued letters patent when Milton Keynes was given city status in 2022. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Vikki Slade

In this latest episode of Meet the Leader, Nick Kilby is joined by Cllr Vikki Slade. Cllr Slade tells the story of how she first got involved in politics, from her entry to the council to her two terms as Leader as Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council. This conversation also explores the challenges of forming coalitions in 'No Overall Control' councils, which Cllr Slade did firstly with the Unity Alliance in 2020 and then with the Three Towns Alliance following the 2023 Local Elections. 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.

Meet the Leader with Jason Brock

For the latest episode of Meet the Leader, host Nick Kilby is joined by Jason Brock who recently stepped down as Leader of Reading Borough Council after a 5-year stint at the helm. Jason's meteoric rise saw him go from by-election candidate to Leader of the Council in under three years, in a time that was dominated with difficult challenges such as financial woes and the Covid-19 pandemic. In this episode, Jason reflects on his journey into politics, his time as Leader and the future that lies ahead for him. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Bridget Smith

The Meet the Leader podcast series returns for May, and Nick Kilby is joined by the Leader of South Cambs District Council, Councillor Bridget Smith. Cllr Smith has led the authority since since 2018 and the District Councillor for the village of Gamlingay for the past 15 years. During this conversation, Cllr Smith discusses her journey into local government and the time spent as Leader so far, as well as the four day working week trial which has attracted so much attention from Westminster. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Lucy Nethsingha

For this latest episode of Meet the Leader, Nick Kilby is joined by the Leader of Cambridgeshire County Council, Councillor Lucy Nethsingha. Cllr Nethsingha dives into the details of her storied journey in local government which has seen her serve at the Parish, City and County level, in addition to also being a former MEP. In this conversation, the pair also talk about the level of support in local government that exists for women and mothers, while also looking forward to Cllr Nethsingha's ambition the Cambridgeshire region. 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.

Meet the Leader with Cllr Elizabeth Campbell

For this latest episode of Meet the Leader, Nick Kilby was joined by Councillor Elizabeth Campbell, who has led the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea since 2017. Cllr Campbell was elected as Leader in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower Fire, and speaks about the impact that the tragedy has had on her experience as Leader, while looking at the legacy for Grenfell and the council as an organisation going forward. 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.