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.

Unlock the secrets to transforming local government recruitment with a diversity-first approach. Join me, Sarah, as I host the inaugural episode of SEEdPOD, where Dr Ruth Adams, CEX of SEE and Kate Wilson from Osborne Thomas engage in a crucial discussion about how diversifying council workforces impacts decision-making and service delivery. Expect to uncover the strategic methods and real-world examples that have reshaped recruitment strategies, especially how targeted approaches can effectively reach minority audiences.

Together with Kate, who has a wealth of experience in executive recruitment and HR consultancy, we dissect the practical challenges and tools for promoting diversity in councils. Through our conversation, we navigate through past experiences in sectors like the fire service and emphasise the importance of crafting compelling job advertisements that resonate with a broader demographic. Whether you're immersed in local government or simply passionate about progressive recruitment practices, this episode promises insightful perspectives on how embracing diversity can enhance both workforce appeal and operational effectiveness.