Managing in a political world: the life cycle of local authority chief executives

Abstract

Controversy over large 'pay-offs' received by some local government executives in the UK who have fallen out with political leaders highlights the vulnerability of operating as a chief executive in the challenging and sometimes turbulent political environment which currently exists. 'Managing in a Political Environment' draws on in-depth interviews with chief executives to highlight the nature of the challenges they face, and the way they deal with them. It considers recruitment issues and the opportunities associated with the 'period of grace' following a new appointment. It highlights in particular the crucial relationship between chief executives and political leaders, emphasizing that whilst mutual trust and respect are important ingredients of an effective relationship, they are by no means sufficient to ensure one. The particular problems of dealing with political change, whether of leaders themselves or of a new administration, are analysed, and the impact of post-2000 government legislation, in particular local executives (including elected mayors) and the performance culture epitomized by the Comprehensive Performance Assessment are explored. The reasons why relationships sometimes break down (and what happens when they do) are identified. Finally the way in which the role of chief executives is likely to change in the coming decade is discussed.