News
10 Mar 2026
PS I HEART You: How Leaders Can Build Resilience Through Change
In this episode, Matthew Hotten is joined by WME Associate, speaker and coach Andrew Pain to explore why traditional change models fall short and how personal challenges can build resilience. They discuss the value of honesty, the impact of burnout, and how our response to change in life influences how we lead at work.
10 Feb 2026
Growing finance talent through apprenticeships at West Midlands Employers
West Midlands Employers is strengthening public sector careers through a finance apprenticeship supporting early career finance talent. New apprentice Ajmer Sidhu is gaining hands-on finance experience while studying for an AAT Level 2 qualification, demonstrating how apprenticeships build practical skills, professional confidence and long-term career pathways.
05 Dec 2025
West Midlands Employers lead the way on practical AI with new Festival of AI in Practice
West Midlands Employers (WME) has launched the Festival of AI in Practice, a free virtual week (26–30 January 2026) to help councils understand and lead with AI. The programme features keynotes speakers, case studies and sessions showcasing real AI use across the region. Open to all WME shareholder council staff, the festival will demystify AI, explore ethics and governance, and show how technology is improving services such as social care and customer experience.
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.
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.
26 Sep 2025
WMJobs Public Sector Career Expo returns – bigger and better, built around what candidates asked for
The WMJobs Public Sector Career Expo returns to Birmingham on Thursday 2nd October 2025 at the Birmingham Conference & Events Centre. With 20+ employers, free expert-led workshops, a candidate support zone, and a dedicated quiet hour, the event is designed to give jobseekers real support. Attendees can explore a wide range of career paths across councils and public services, gain practical tips on applications and interviews, and learn how to use AI safely in their job search. The expo goes beyond recruitment, helping people boost skills, build confidence, and leave with a clear plan for their next career step.
24 Jul 2025
Recruiting for complexity
Rebecca Davis calls for a fundamental shift in local government recruitment. She argues councils must look beyond traditional hiring methods and focus on finding adaptable, future-ready leaders. Through strategic workforce planning, inclusive pathways, and cross-council collaboration, WME is helping reshape recruitment to meet complex modern challenges. Davis champions honest storytelling, early engagement with young people, and prioritising learning agility over rigid experience to futureproof the public sector.
17 Apr 2025
Employment Landscape Changes – the impact on recruitment
The Employment Rights Bill signals major UK workplace reform, expanding day one rights and protections for vulnerable workers. While businesses fear recruitment challenges and rising costs, opportunities emerge for fairer hiring, workforce resilience, and inclusive growth. Local Government must adapt positively to harness talent and support long-term workforce strategy.
31 Mar 2025
West Midlands Employers unveils ambitious Strategic Plan for 2025-2030
West Midlands Employers (WME) has launched an ambitious Strategic Plan for 2025-2030, focused on building high-performing, future-ready workforces. With priorities like leadership, collaboration, and workforce innovation, the plan will drive regional prosperity, tackle workforce challenges, and ensure the West Midlands remains a great place to work, live, and thrive.