Resilience and Purpose in Local Government: Lessons from Rachel McKoy
- truthaboutlocalgov
- Jul 8, 2024
- 4 min read
In the fast-paced, high-stakes world of local government, resilience is more than a buzzword—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re an officer managing complex services or a councillor navigating political pressures, the ability to stay grounded, adaptable, and focused is key to long-term success.
Rachel McKoy, Director of Law & Governance (Monitoring Officer) at the London Boroughs of Newham and Havering, brings a wealth of experience and insight to this topic. With a distinguished career that includes leadership roles in Lawyers in Local Government (LLG), Solace, and the Law Society, Rachel has become a respected voice in the sector. Her journey offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to lead with integrity and resilience.
A Career Anchored in Purpose
Rachel’s commitment to local government is rooted in a deep belief in public service. She sees the sector as a powerful force for good—where collective action can drive meaningful change in communities. For her, working in local government is about using one’s skills and experience to serve others and contribute to something greater than oneself.
This sense of purpose has been a guiding force throughout her career. It’s what keeps her motivated during challenging times and what inspires her to lead with authenticity and compassion.
Understanding Resilience in Practice
Resilience, as Rachel sees it, isn’t about being unshakeable or immune to stress. It’s about being human—acknowledging difficulties, allowing space for vulnerability, and still choosing to move forward with intention and optimism.
She emphasises the importance of self-reflection, not as a luxury, but as a leadership necessity. Taking time to pause, assess, and recalibrate helps leaders stay connected to their values and maintain clarity in decision-making. It also sets a powerful example for others, showing that strength and self-awareness go hand in hand.
Rachel also highlights the role of collective energy in building resilience. When teams work together with shared purpose and mutual support, they can overcome even the most complex challenges. Trusting the process, staying committed to the mission, and embracing a “human first” approach are all part of her leadership ethos.
Practical Strategies for Building Resilience
For those looking to strengthen their resilience, Rachel offers a set of practical strategies that are grounded in experience and applicable across all levels of local government:
1. Lead with Integrity
Authenticity is the foundation of effective leadership. Being clear about your values and acting consistently with them builds trust and credibility. It also helps you stay focused when external pressures mount.
2. Stay Connected to Your Purpose
Knowing your “why” provides direction and motivation. In local government, where the work can be demanding and the wins sometimes slow, having a clear sense of purpose helps sustain momentum.
3. Keep Listening
Resilient leaders are also great listeners. They seek out diverse perspectives, remain open to feedback, and create space for others to contribute. Listening fosters inclusion and strengthens relationships.
4. Embrace Growth
Personal and professional development should be ongoing. Whether it’s learning a new skill, exploring a different perspective, or reflecting on a recent experience, growth fuels resilience. Bringing your whole self to work—including your passions, experiences, and insights—enriches the workplace and strengthens team dynamics.
5. Prioritise Inclusion
Diversity of thought and voice is essential for innovation and resilience. Leaders should regularly ask: Who are we listening to? Who’s missing from the conversation? How can we create more inclusive spaces?
Navigating Change and Uncertainty
Change is a constant in local government—whether it’s structural reform, policy shifts, or community crises. Rachel’s experience has taught her that successful transformation depends on clear communication, strong relationships, and a shared sense of purpose.
She encourages officers and members to approach change not as a threat, but as an opportunity to rethink and improve. By staying grounded in values and focused on outcomes, leaders can guide their organisations through uncertainty with confidence and care.
A Message to Aspiring Leaders
Rachel’s journey is particularly inspiring for women and underrepresented groups in the sector. As a senior female leader in a traditionally male-dominated space, she understands the challenges of breaking through barriers—and the importance of visibility and support.
She advocates for inclusive leadership and encourages aspiring leaders to be bold, to seek out mentors and allies, and to believe in their own potential. Leadership, she believes, is not about fitting a mould—it’s about showing up as your authentic self and leading with purpose.
Why Local Government?
For those considering a career in local government, Rachel’s message is clear: this is a sector where you can make a real difference. The work is varied, impactful, and deeply connected to the lives of residents. Whether you’re interested in law, finance, planning, social care, or community engagement, there’s a place for you.
Local government offers not just a job, but a career with meaning. It’s a space where you can grow, lead, and contribute to the public good—while working alongside passionate, committed colleagues.
Conclusion: Resilience as a Leadership Mindset
Rachel McKoy’s career is a powerful example of what it means to lead with resilience, integrity, and purpose. Her insights remind us that resilience isn’t about being perfect or invulnerable—it’s about being real, reflective, and relentlessly committed to making a difference.
For local government officers and members, the path to resilience starts with self-awareness, is sustained by community, and is guided by purpose. Whether you’re just starting out or stepping into senior leadership, these principles can help you thrive in a sector that needs strong, compassionate leaders now more than ever.
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