Posted on: 09/12/2025

Podcasts

In this episode, Rebecca Davis, Chief Executive of West Midlands Employers, is joined by Emma Bennett, Chief Executive at Walsall Council. Together they explore Emma’s journey from frontline social work to chief executive, and what it means to lead in the place you call home. The conversation covers workforce engagement, political dynamics, resident-led transformation, and the challenges and opportunities facing local government today. Emma also shares her reflections on gender in leadership, the importance of work-life balance, and how to build trust and culture across complex systems.