NALC and SLCC appoint a new chair of the Improvement and Development Board

The Improvement and Development Board (IDB) has appointed James Alexander as its new independent chair.

The newly appointed chair, James Alexander, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, having spent time as the City of York council leader, chief officer and lead adviser at the Local Government Association (LGA), resettlement transfer operations manager at the UK Home Office and his current role as head of alternative accommodation at the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC). James’ comprehensive understanding of the sector and dedication to advancing their interests have earned them a stellar reputation among peers.

Established in 2013 by the National Association of Local Councils (NALC) and the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC), the IDB develops the strategy for and oversees the operation of improvement and development initiatives for England’s 10,000 local (parish and town) councils.

James Alexander said: "I am deeply honoured to take on this role and look forward to working tirelessly with dedication, passion, and a commitment to driving positive change in our local communities."

Cllr Keith Stevens, NALC chair, said: "I welcome James’s appointment and look forward to working with him as a member of the IDB. The role of the independent chair is vital to harnessing the collective ambitions of all the bodies represented on the board to drive forward our improvement strategy. James’s extensive experience and fresh focus will significantly benefit us as we embark on a new phase. This includes reinvigorating our improvement initiatives covering officer qualifications, councillor training, good governance, civility and respect, intervention, and workforce."

Adam Keppel-Green, SLCC chair, said: "Driving continued improvement in our sector [local government] is greatly important, and I look forward to seeing the fresh perspective, challenge and insight James brings to the IDB as our independent chair."

The organisations represented on the IDB are NALC, SLCC, LGA, DLUHC and county associations.