The Pulse

16 Oct 2025

More Change to Support “The Change”

Lorna Wells highlights how menopause support has shifted from a workplace taboo to a strategic priority. For employees, this means recognition, adjustments, and a culture that enables them to thrive through a natural life stage. For employers, it’s a reminder that the stakes go beyond compliance: supporting menopause effectively reduces litigation risk, retains experienced talent, strengthens wellbeing, and reinforces the public sector’s reputation as an inclusive employer of choice.

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16 Oct 2025

Small actions, big impact -Inclusion at the WMJobs Public Sector Careers Expo

Lucy Hall highlights how inclusion is built through small human interactions rather than policy alone. For jobseekers, it means feeling seen, heard and supported. For employers, it’s about adapting language, pace and approach with empathy. For organisations, it’s proof that genuine inclusion happens face-to-face, turning curiosity into confidence and breaking down invisible barriers.

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16 Oct 2025

Tri-sector Challenge 2025: Collaboration, Competition and a Glimpse of the Future

Matthew Hotten highlights how the West Midlands Tri-sector Challenge shows leadership in public services moving from siloed approaches to collaborative, cross-sector problem solving. For participants, it means stepping outside their comfort zones, leading under pressure and building the skills needed to navigate uncertainty. For organisations, it’s a reminder that leadership development must keep pace with the realities of modern public service: complex challenges, shared responsibilities and the need for trust-based collaboration.

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05 Nov 2025

PS I HEART You Unplugged: Reframing AI: Human-Centred Innovation in Councils

In this episode of the WME Podcast, Michelle O’Neill (Principal Consultant, Leadership and OD at West Midlands Employers) is joined by AI specialist Heather Murray for a human-first conversation on AI in local government. They explore how AI can support—not replace—public service professionals, and why removing fear is key to real adoption. With practical insights around safe experimentation, collaboration between HR and IT, and the need to put purpose before tools, this episode reframes AI as a people issue as much as a technical one. Perfect for leaders navigating the digital future with empathy and intention.

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21 Oct 2025

West Midlands pilot showcases local government careers for young people

A new pilot campaign, Make a Difference, Work for Your Local Council, is being launched in the West Midlands this October and November to inspire young people to consider careers in local government. Developed by the LGA with local partners, the campaign was unveiled at the WMJobs Public Sector Career Expo in Birmingham and will feature at key regional events. A new video highlights the variety of roles, training, and flexible working councils offer, sharing real apprentice and graduate success stories. Resources and creative materials will support councils regionally and nationally, helping to attract the next generation into local government careers.

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07 Oct 2025

WMJobs Public Sector Career Expo Puts Inclusivity Centre Stage

The WMJobs Career Expo 2025, held in Birmingham on 2nd October, connected councils, employers and jobseekers across the West Midlands. Over 20 exhibitors showcased 1,000+ public sector roles, from teaching to finance. A new ‘Quiet Hour’ created a more inclusive, accessible experience for attendees. Expert workshops covered confidence, career pathways and AI in job searches. With strong youth engagement and the launch of the LGA’s new campaign, the Expo highlighted inclusivity, opportunity and the breadth of careers in local government.

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05 Nov 2025

PS I HEART You Unplugged: Reframing AI: Human-Centred Innovation in Councils

In this episode of the WME Podcast, Michelle O’Neill (Principal Consultant, Leadership and OD at West Midlands Employers) is joined by AI specialist Heather Murray for a human-first conversation on AI in local government. They explore how AI can support—not replace—public service professionals, and why removing fear is key to real adoption. With practical insights around safe experimentation, collaboration between HR and IT, and the need to put purpose before tools, this episode reframes AI as a people issue as much as a technical one. Perfect for leaders navigating the digital future with empathy and intention.

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07 Oct 2025

PS IHEARY You Unplugged: Data, Devolution and the Future of Local Government: Insights with Mo Baines & Dr Jason Lowther

In this episode of the WME Podcast, Rebecca Davis, Chief Executive of West Midlands Employers, is joined by Dr Jason Lowther, Director at the University of Birmingham’s Institute of Local Government Studies, and Mo Baines, Chief Executive of APSE. Together they explore how councils can make better use of data and analytics, the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence in local government, and the role of devolution in shaping the future of communities. They also discuss why a national workforce strategy is urgently needed to address skills gaps and strengthen local government for the years ahead.

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03 Sep 2025

PS I HEART You Unplugged: The power of small habits: Building resilience and wellbeing

In this episode of PS IHEART You Unplugged, Matthew from West Midlands Employers speaks with Kat Thorne, The Morning Game Changer, about how small daily habits can create lasting impact. Kat shares her journey from burnout to resilience, highlighting the role of accountability, mindset, and positive routines. Listeners will gain practical strategies to improve wellbeing, energy, and performance, while learning how organisations can foster sustainable change.

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31 Jan 2025

WMJobs Fair 2025 Attendee Interviews

Watch the WMJobs fair highlights for 2025 and the attendee interviews.

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25 Nov 2024

'I Am Not A Robot' Coaching and Mentoring conference 2024

Discover how the 'I Am Not A Robot' Coaching and Mentoring Conference by West Midlands Employers explored the balance between human intuition and digital tools.

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24 Sep 2024

Tri-Sector Challenge 2024

Join us as we reflect on the Tri-Sector Challenge; a unique leadership event bringing together the public, private, and third sectors to solve real-world challenges.

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