Recruiting leaders in perilous times
Leadership appointments have always carried weight, but in the current climate they carry a different kind of exposure. For those of us working at the interface between Boards and candidates, it is clear that the rules of engagement have shifted, and that executive search must shift with them.
In praise of Gen Z
I surveyed my multi-generational team on what they wanted from work. Here's what I learned.
Community cohesion, leadership and local government perspectives
A system-wide view of how community cohesion is being experienced, led, and constrained across different types of councils and places.
Rebuilding the scaffolding to repair communities
The MJ reports on Starfish’s survey and talks to councils about the scale of the challenge, and the need to appoint leaders who can build trust.
The new reality of visible leadership
Sunita Patel outlines how the need for community cohesion has presented an important challenge for today’s local leaders, and is affecting the way we recruit, support and retain them.
Boardroom Breakthrough: Land Your First (or Next) NED/Trustee Role
Whether you're launching a portfolio career, seeking a strategic challenge, or planning a phased transition from executive life - this is your moment. Non-Executive Director roles offer more than prestige. They give you influence, purpose, and the chance to shape the future of organisations. But getting shortlisted for a NED/Trustee role is tough - and your CV is the gatekeeper.
2025 Budget
We wrote to 400 leaders to ask them for a reaction to last week’s Budget. Here’s what they said.
Funding Crises and the Search for Financially Resilient Leaders
Councils in England are under systemic strain. The Bennett School of Public Policy estimates a collective funding gap of £9.3 billion over the next few years, with most authorities forecast to operate in deficit. Meanwhile, Grant Thornton warns that up to 40% of councils could face financial failure within five years without new income or deeper cuts.
Statutory Officers Under Pressure: Leading in a Fluctuating Political Environment
Statutory officers have always been central to the integrity and stability of local government. Today, their roles are under unprecedented strain. Political volatility, heightened scrutiny, constrained resources, and rising public expectations have created a more complex and demanding environment than ever before.
Join the starfish team
We hire people who bring insight, integrity and ambition to their work. If you’re ready to contribute to shaping the future of leadership and you want to explore our current opportunities please click the link below.
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