The Local Government Association (LGA) has welcomed the arrival of new Interim Chief Executive Jenny Rowlands, marking an important leadership transition for the organisation.
Rowlands took up the role today, bringing extensive experience and insight from across local government at a time of continued change and responsibility for the sector.
The appointment comes at a significant moment for the LGA as it continues to support councils across England in delivering services, managing financial pressures, and responding to evolving national policy.
Leaders said Rowlands’ arrival ensures strong and stable leadership as the organisation continues to deliver for its members and partners. She brings a wealth of knowledge from her career in local government, with experience spanning leadership, strategy, and service delivery.
Her background is expected to support the LGA’s ongoing work in representing councils, influencing policy, and strengthening sector‑wide collaboration.
In her role as Interim Chief Executive, Rowlands will work closely with the LGA’s Strategic Leadership Team to ensure the organisation continues to deliver effectively for local authorities.
Commenting on her new role, Rowlands said:
“I feel privileged to be joining the LGA at such an important time for both the organisation and the wider local government sector. Having led councils in LGA membership for many years, I know from first-hand experience how respected the organisation is and the tremendous support it provides to our sector every day. I am grateful for the opportunity to join the LGA at a pivotal moment in its own transformation and at a time when local government is playing an increasingly important role in shaping the future of place-based policy and public service reform. I look forward to building on the work already achieved by so many colleagues to ensure the LGA remains a motivated and confident membership-led organisation that is so highly valued by all.”
This includes overseeing key programmes such as:
- Sector‑led improvement initiatives
- Support services delivered on behalf of government and partners
- Work to strengthen collaboration across councils and regions
The LGA plays a central role in promoting best practice and helping local authorities improve services and outcomes for communities.
Maintaining strong relationships with member councils, national government and partner organisations will remain a priority, alongside delivering the organisation’s core programmes and services.
Rowlands is expected to play a key role in guiding the organisation through ongoing challenges and opportunities facing the sector. The appointment reflects the LGA’s commitment to maintaining strong leadership as it continues to support councils during a period of change across local government.
With her experience and collaborative approach, Jenny Rowlands will lead the organisation through its next phase – ensuring it continues to deliver effective support, advocacy and improvement for local authorities and the communities they serve.
Councillor Louise Gittins, LGA Chair, also said:
“This appointment will ensure stability and continuity of leadership on our priorities and the Future Operating Model. Jenny brings a strong track record of leadership in local government, most recently as Chief Executive of Camden. She has previously served as Chief Executive of Lewes District Council and has provided improvement support to many other councils. This experience will help ensure we continue to prioritise the needs of our member councils as they face the challenges ahead. Alongside her leadership roles, Jenny has significant experience supporting councils through improvement and recovery and has helped shape new national approaches to sector-led improvement.”
Image credit: Local Government Association
