Localis announces new chief executive

Localis, the leading independent think-tank dedicated to issues related to localism and local government, has appointed Jonathan Werran as its new chief executive.

Jonathan Werran has two decades’ experience writing and researching public policy. Prior to his appointment Jonathan was head of news and events for Localis. He has previously worked for local government trade publication The Municipal Journal as reporter and features editor, for the District Councils’ Network as strategic communications officer and has previously worked in third sector communications, digital publishing and business development consultancy.

Sir Merrick Cockell, chairman of the board of Localis, said: “Localis was created to further the cause of decentralised politics and to help provide the intellectual rigour and research needed to make the case. Much has been achieved, but a great deal more still remains to be done to ensure that power and control is passed down from Whitehall to the regions, cities and to individuals.

“Jonathan takes the reins of Localis at a time when the organisation has seized the commanding heights of thinking around the industrial strategy and local economic agenda and is primed for a new phase of dynamic growth. He brings a wealth of experience, insight and determination to lead the debate and policy agenda.”

Localis chief executive, Jonathan Werran, said: “Localis has rightly received plaudits for its boldness and drive in making the strongest case for the importance of place in key policy areas of industrial strategy, labour markets, housing, health and social care integration - among many others.

“I look forward to building on the strong legacy left by my predecessor Liam Booth-Smith and to advancing the neo-localist argument – which means developing new answers capable of remedying the most pressing social and economic challenges facing our society.”

Jonathan Werran takes charge of Localis with immediate effect.

ENDS

Press enquiries:

Seonaid Strachan, communications and events officer, Localis
0870 448 1530 / / seonaid.strachan@localis.org.uk

Notes to Editors:

Localis is an independent think-tank dedicated to issues related to local government and localism. Since our formation we have produced influential research on a variety of issues including housing, local government finance and health and social care. We carry out innovative research, hold a calendar of events and facilitate an ever growing network of members to stimulate and challenge the current orthodoxy of the governance of the UK.

For more information on Localis’s Chair and Board: http://www.localis.org.uk/board/

For more information in Localis’s current staff: http://www.localis.org.uk/team/