Structure and process is important. What goes on within the structure in terms of behaviours is critical.

Breakdowns in internal relationships and poor role clarity can lead to frustration, diminished trust or even systenic breakdown and dysfunctional governance.
The engagement space between elected members and executives/managers is where ‘strong governance’ really matters.

Councillors need to have meaningful input into priority-setting. Collectively, they need to drive what gets done. Individually, they need be heard and to feel that they have had their say.
Executive and managers need to be able to run the operations, within a broad strategic, policy and resource ‘envelope’ agreed with council.
Our team has navigated the complex governance space with councillors and executives over 30+ years to help each better understand the others’ needs and make it work better.