In the first episode of Series 3 of Local Government Stories, we take a wider lens on leadership across the local government ecosystem. This week, Ali Whiteley, Chief Executive of London Councils (representing London’s 32 boroughs and the City of London), joins us to discuss what it takes to lead in complexity.

We talk about how leaders build consensus (and recognise when “red lines” make agreement impossible), and why credible evidence and analysis matter when shaping recommendations and influencing across the system.

The conversation also explores the scale of housing and homelessness pressures — including the impact on councils and communities — and why these challenges are rarely solved by a single policy lever.

To close, Ali shares a powerful reflection: a wish that, despite everything going on, we celebrate more and are kinder to each other — and a legacy rooted in inspiring and supporting others to do their best work.

In this episode:

• Building consensus across complex issues (and identifying “red lines”)
• Using evidence and analysis to test recommendations with political groups
• Housing, homelessness pressures and system-wide impacts
• Leadership reflections: kindness, celebration, and supporting others

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