THE Leader of Exeter City Council, Councillor Phil Bialyk, has been appointed Chair of the SW Employers Panel, South West Councils is pleased to announce.

The Panel brings together all of the 29 South West Local Authorities to share best practice on HR issues and to provide a voice for the South West in national discussions on local government pay and related issues.

Phil will also Chair the National Association of Regional Employers which brings together regional and national counterparts working collaboratively with regional counterparts to shape national workforce policy and drive innovation in public sector employment.

Cllr Bialyk said: “I am delighted to take on this important regional role particular at such a key time for local government in the South West with the Government’s proposals on reshaping the structure of local government and the devolution of national powers.

“I look forward to working with colleagues across political parties and across the region to ensure we are effectively working and sharing the best ways of working for the benefit of all of the people living and working in the South West ”.

Bryony Houlden, Chief Executive of South West Councils, said: “I and my team are looking forward to working with Cllr Bialyk as part of our role supporting local authorities across the South West.

“We know that alongside the new Chair of SW Councils, Cllr Bill Revans (Leader of Somerset) and other colleagues he will be fighting hard to ensure that the voice of the South West is heard and reflected in decisions at national level”.

South West Councils (https://swcouncils.gov.uk/about-us/) works to promote the interests of the South West.

The core membership is formed of the 29 county, unitary and district councils in the South West.

These core members are supported to meet, network, share best practice and advocate on behalf of the South West.