The Local Government Association has announced that it has appointed its next Chief Executive, with Joanna Killian taking on the role.
Currently, Killian is the Chief Executive of Surrey County Council and will take over the role in March, after overseeing six years of ‘dramatic transformation’ in Surrey. She holds more than three decades of experience across the public sector, including the delivery of transformational change, service improvement and cost reduction; the latter point being of great value given the current financial situation that councils around the country find themselves in.
Killian said:
“Local government plays a vital role in communities up and down the UK, making a real difference every single day. It’s a sector I feel very privileged to work in, and I’m glad to be continuing that journey with the LGA.
“I know from my time at Surrey that councils are full of wonderful people, with bright ideas and huge energy, working hard to improve people’s lives. I look forward to working closely with local authorities of all types and political colours in my new role.
“I am excited to get to work with the LGA’s political leadership, members, staff and wider stakeholders to ensure we continue to stand up for local government and the people and places we serve.”
LGA Chair Shaun Davies commented on Joanna’s appointment, saying:
“As we head into a General Election year, and with councils facing financial pressures like never before, the experience, skills and insight Joanna brings to the LGA will be a huge asset for the organisation and our membership.
“Her local government expertise, network and knowledge developed in previous high-profile roles – both in councils and the private sector – will be invaluable in ensuring the LGA continues to be a strong and united voice for local government in the debates that matter. The LGA’s political group leaders and I are all delighted that Joanna will be joining us soon.”
Aside from her role in Surrey, Killian has been the Local Government Improvement Commissioner at Liverpool City Council since 2021.
Image credit: Local Government Association, https://www.local.gov.uk/
