New Local Appoints Jessica Studdert as Chief Executive
New Local is delighted to announce the appointment of Jessica Studdert as its new Chief Executive.
Jessica is a leading voice on local government, public service reform, and devolution policy. Over her 20-year career, she has also worked alongside the sector within the LGA and in political, think tank, and third-sector policy roles.
Jessica has played a pivotal role at New Local, serving as deputy chief executive and co-authoring the influential Community Paradigm, which continues to shape community-led approaches to public services.
Jessica says:
“I am delighted to be appointed as chief executive of New Local, an organisation I absolutely love. There has never been a more important time for New Local’s unique work – bridging the most innovative local practice with national policy to bring about sustainable change.
“I am incredibly excited to take New Local’s community power mission into a new era. In these times of constrained resource, our network of pioneering councils is a real force for sharing our understanding of what works. From shifting our public services towards prevention, renewing our democracy to overcome alienation, to making sure devolution really shifts power out of Whitehall – a strong role for communities and local government within national policy is essential.
“I look forward to working with our pioneering network, partners and friends to build momentum and energy for the future change our country needs.”
Katie Kelly, New Local Chair, says:
“Following an extensive and robust recruitment process, I am delighted to confirm Jessica Studdert as New Local’s Chief Executive. Jess brings a deep understanding of both our organisation and the sector and is greatly respected for her insight and thought leadership at a national and local level.
“The Board and I are confident that, with her progressive leadership, bold vision and passion supported by our incredible staff and network of councils, New Local will be well-placed to amplify and catalyse community power as an essential driver of public service transformation. I want to thank the many applicants for their interest in New Local and the fantastic team at Peridot, our recruitment partner, for supporting us throughout the process.”
Jessica recently collaborated with former Secretary of State John Denham to lead a call to revitalise Total Place-style place-based public service budgets.
John says:
“Jess is already seen one of the most creative and influential thinkers about local government and community power. She is a great choice to lead New Local and I look forward greatly to working with her to influence ambitious public sector reform.”
Catherine Howe, Chief Executive of Adur and Worthing council, says:
“Jessica’s appointment as Chief Executive of New Local is brilliant news for both the organisation and the wider local government sector. Jess has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing local government, and her leadership will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of public services. I have no doubt that with Jess at the helm, New Local will continue to be a vital partner for councils like Adur and Worthing, providing the vision and support needed to empower communities and drive meaningful change.”
Under Jessica’s leadership, New Local will continue its mission to transform public services and empower communities through its 50-strong network of councils and partners, innovative research, and pioneering practice work.
Jessica has served as New Local’s interim chief executive since May, following the departure of Adam Lent.
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