From Graduate to Executive: Sarah Reed’s 30-Year Journey in Local Government

For anyone navigating the complexities of local government reorganisation, or considering a career in the public sector, Sarah Reed’s story offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. With over three decades of experience, Sarah has not only witnessed the evolution of local government—she’s helped shape it. Her journey from graduate trainee to Executive Director for Corporate Services at West Northamptonshire Council is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and purpose-driven leadership.

This blog explores Sarah’s career, her role in the transformation of local government in Northamptonshire, and her advice for those aspiring to lead—particularly women looking to break through the glass ceiling.

A Calling Rooted in Community

Sarah’s passion for public service was sparked early. Raised in a family where education and leadership were core values, she was inspired by her parents—both educators—and her grandfather, a dynamic private sector leader.

“My parents, one a Head Teacher and the other a Special Needs Advisor, instilled in me the value of service and the impact of nurturing young lives,” Sarah recalls. “My grandfather inspired me with his passion for leadership and lifelong learning.”

This blend of compassion and ambition laid the foundation for a career rooted in community and driven by purpose.

The First Step: Graduate Programme in Gateshead

Sarah’s journey began with a two-year graduate programme in HR and Organisational Development at Gateshead Council. It was a formative experience that gave her a comprehensive understanding of how councils operate.

“It was the perfect launchpad—structured training, diverse projects, and the chance to collaborate with a wide range of teams,” she says.

This early exposure to the inner workings of local government helped Sarah develop a systems-thinking mindset—an essential skill for anyone aspiring to lead transformation.

A Career of Variety and Impact

Over the next 30 years, Sarah held 11 different roles across four councils, with a stint in the NHS adding further depth to her public service experience. Her career has spanned everything from customer service and administration to strategic leadership and organisational development.

“Each role has deepened my appreciation for the breadth of work councils do,” she explains. “There’s no such thing as a typical day in local government.”

This variety is one of the sector’s greatest strengths—and one of its biggest draws for those considering a career change from the private sector.

Leading Through Reorganisation: Lessons from Northamptonshire

One of the most defining chapters in Sarah’s career came with the unitarisation of local government in Northamptonshire. In 2021, following a government-led reorganisation, eight councils were dissolved and replaced by two new unitary authorities: West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire.

Sarah joined West Northants on vesting day, stepping into a senior leadership role at a time of immense change.

“Merging county and district functions, navigating shared services, and managing a jointly-owned Children’s Trust were complex challenges—but also incredible opportunities to shape something new,” she says.

Her experience offers valuable lessons for others going through similar transformations:

1. Embrace the Opportunity to Redesign

Reorganisation is not just about merging structures—it’s a chance to reimagine how services are delivered.

“We weren’t just combining teams—we were building a new culture, a new identity, and a new way of working,” Sarah explains.

2. Communicate with Clarity and Compassion

Change can be unsettling. Sarah emphasises the importance of clear, consistent communication—not just about what’s changing, but why.

“People need to feel heard and supported. Transparency builds trust, and trust is the foundation of successful transformation.”

3. Lead with Values

At West Northants, Sarah and her colleagues developed the “West Way of Working”—a cultural framework that encourages staff to bring the best version of themselves to work.

“It’s about authenticity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to public service,” she says.

The Heartbeat of Local Government

Sarah is quick to dispel the myth that local government is slow or bureaucratic.

“It’s a dynamic, ever-evolving environment filled with passionate people committed to solving problems and improving lives,” she says.

From supporting the homeless and caring for vulnerable children to maintaining parks and collecting waste, councils are the safety net and the scaffolding of society.

“We’re there 24/7, often quietly, always reliably. And we do it with shrinking budgets and rising demand.”

Despite the pressures, Sarah remains energised by the sector’s resilience and innovation.

A Career Like No Other

One of the most compelling aspects of local government is the sheer diversity of roles. Whether your interest lies in finance, procurement, elections, occupational health, or social care, there’s a place for you.

“We offer over 800 services—there truly is a career for everyone,” Sarah says.

She credits much of her own growth to working under visionary Chief Executives who fostered inclusive, values-driven cultures.

“I’ve been fortunate to work in organisations where people can thrive and be their authentic selves,” she adds.

Smashing the Glass Ceiling: Advice for Aspiring Female Leaders

As a senior female leader in a sector still striving for gender parity at the top, Sarah is passionate about supporting women in leadership.

“There’s still work to do, but we’re making progress. And it’s vital that we lift as we climb.”

Her advice for women aspiring to leadership roles:

1. Own Your Ambition

“Don’t apologise for wanting to lead. Ambition is not arrogance—it’s a commitment to making a difference.”

2. Build Your Network

Seek out mentors, allies, and sponsors. Sarah encourages women to support each other and share opportunities.

3. Be Visible

“Put yourself forward. Speak up in meetings. Apply for that promotion. You belong in the room.”

4. Lead Authentically

You don’t have to mimic others to succeed. Sarah believes that authentic leadership—grounded in empathy, integrity, and purpose—is the most powerful kind.

An Invitation to Join Local Government

For those considering a career change—whether from the private sector, the NHS, or another public service—Sarah offers a warm invitation:

“If you’re looking for a career with purpose, variety, and the chance to make a real difference, local government is the place for you.”

She encourages people to explore the sector’s many pathways, from graduate schemes to apprenticeships, and from frontline roles to strategic leadership.

“It’s where I found my purpose, my passion, and a place to grow.”

Conclusion: Leading with Purpose in a Changing World

Sarah Reed’s 30-year journey in local government is more than a career story—it’s a blueprint for leading through change, building inclusive cultures, and making a lasting impact.

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Whether you’re navigating reorganisation, aspiring to executive leadership, or simply wondering if local government could be your next move, her message is clear:

“Come and join us—local government is my place of choice, and it could be yours too.”