I am a former print journalist, and began my PR career in the NHS before moving to the voluntary sector for two years as media relations manager for Age Concern England. More importantly, I'm a husband of 26 years and father of two. I am steeped in public service - my wife is a primary school headteacher and my oldest son is about to embark on a career teaching physics in Greater Manchester. My youngest son is studying at King’s College London and is aiming for a career in the Ministry of Defence. We live in Suffolk.

I have worked in local government communications and marketing for 21 years, across six local councils – County, District and a London borough. I have been a communications leader since 2005, when I became an Assistant Director at Bedfordshire County Council – which was then the worst-performing council in the country. Within two years, we were rated as ‘Good.’

I am proud to lead what I firmly believe to be one of the best strategic Communications & Marketing teams in the country at Essex County Council. I also help lead one of the best networks of public service communicators in the country across Greater Essex.

I am currently National Secretary of LGcomms. My work in recent years has included designing our webinar/seminar programme, developing relationships with commercial partners which has contributed to improving our financial position, and contributing to the LGcomms Academy programme.