Why did you sign up for Different?:
As LGR evolves in Warwickshire I will play a key role in designing the new model and I believed the exposure gained in this programme would help me to understand and navigate in an organisation I had only been with for the last 2 years. This would also give me broader strategic understanding of how Councils operate in areas outside of my professional discipline.
I also saw this programme providing me the opportunity to build upon the confidence in myself in a wider senior leadership environment. Enabling me to feel able and equipped to step into a potential bigger/wider role in whatever the new unitary council looks like comfortably and confidently.
What impact has Different made to you?
It's helped in a many ways:-
1. Provided me with a better understanding of mechanics of how LG works as a strategic lead and the things I need to be thinking about
2. Challenged and tested some of my approaches, direction and steer I have given my Leads/Heads of service, getting me to think of the broader Strategic impact of my service areas - internally and externally
3. Helped me assess my own leadership capability, resilience and stakeholder management and relationships.
4. Provided me with the opportunity to meet like minded people who have experienced similar challenges/ frustrations as I have and get it, whom I can support and be supported by.
Why would you recommend joining Different?
Being in a senior role as well as being in an under represented group can be a very lonely place. 'Different' offers sound strategic awareness, understanding and exposure to challenges others have or are facing in similar circumstances. It helps people like me to navigate comfortably in a politically challenging environment where you may often be the only brown/black face.
It also helps you sound out and share experiences that like minded people will truly understand. It provides exposure to understand the political strategic challenges you need to be aware off as a senior leader of a LA. As well as providing a brilliant network of colleagues/friends who will always support you and whom you can discuss issues with comfortably and confidently knowing there are no perceived views or judgement.
Bal Jacob
Director of Workforce and Local Services
Warwickshire County Council