Podcasts

LATEST EPISODE

Episode: 01 – The PPMA’s Golden Square and Why it Matters Now 

With PPMA President Sandra Farquharson and Graeme McDonald, Chief Executive of Solace.

Together they discuss the changing role of HR and OD, why people expertise needs a strong voice at the top table, the importance of culture and leadership during periods of major change and Sandra’s ambitions for the Golden Square and her PPMA presidency.

It’s the first in a series of conversations exploring leadership, culture, governance and workforce challenges through the Golden Square lens.

Keywords:

public sector leadership, civility, HR transformation, local government, devolution, organisational change, leadership development

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to the podcast and guest
01:00 – Sandra explains the purpose of the episode and introduces Graeme McDonald
01:56 – The inspiration behind the Golden Square concept
02:29 – The importance of civility and behaviour in public sector leadership
04:06 – Current challenges in local government and workforce stability
05:34 – The role of HR in organisational culture and capability
06:50 – The impact of expectations and change in local government
08:35 – The significance of HR in large-scale change like LGR
09:28 – Balancing deadlines with organisational culture during reform
10:45 – The importance of early engagement and relationship building
11:55 – The implications of devolution and increased expectations
13:22 – The role of OD and HR professionals in navigating change
15:47 – The importance of resilience and values in leadership
17:22 – Supporting colleagues and creating space for change
19:32 – Leadership qualities for success in turbulent times
23:40 – Sandra’s vision for her presidency and future goals
27:21 – The legacy Sandra hopes to leave in the PPMA

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