Built Environment Briefing: Marc on Interim Leadership and Regeneration

Navigating Change in Local Government: Marc Shares Insights on Interim Leadership and Regeneration

In this episode of Built Environment Briefing, host Alex from Panoramic Associates speaks with Marc, an experienced leader in regeneration and economic development, about a career spanning more than 35 years in planning, consultancy, and interim local government roles. Drawing on his work across the UK from Manchester to Herefordshire, Marc reflects on the challenges, opportunities, and realities of interim leadership in the built environment.

From Planning Beginnings to Regeneration Leadership

Marc’s journey began with a traditional entry into planning, inspired by his father, a local council chair. After formative years with Cheshire County Council and Manchester City Council, where he saw the early days of competitive regeneration funding, he moved into the private sector, then the third sector with the Coalfields Regeneration Trust. Returning to local government, Marc rose to executive roles before embracing the pace and variety of interim leadership. His career demonstrates adaptability, continual growth, and a strong commitment to community impact.

Interim versus Permanent: What Sets Them Apart?

Marc reflects candidly on the differences between interim and permanent leadership. Successful interims, he explains, must “hit the ground running,” deliver swift solutions, and create stable foundations for their successors — all while leaving ego aside. Interims are valued for their neutrality and practical focus but must also be comfortable stepping back from long-term outcomes and internal politics.

Tackling Challenges in Lean Times

From his experience across the country, Marc highlights the recurring challenge of doing “more for less” in an era of austerity. He stresses the need for pragmatic, back-to-basics approaches to regeneration, warning against over-complication and short-lived trends. For him, effective leadership means prioritising sustainable, realistic goals and learning from both success and failure.

Advice for Aspiring Interims

For those considering interim work, Marc advises clarity of purpose and a full understanding of its unique demands. Interim roles, he notes, bring freedom and the opportunity to make a tangible impact, but require humility, adaptability, and a willingness to share knowledge without attachment to outcomes.

Looking Ahead in the Built Environment

As local government faces further change through devolution and restructuring, Marc calls for continued debate that elevates the voices of experienced practitioners. He urges future discussions to focus on practical, real-world solutions to complex challenges — valuing those who “know what they’re talking about” rather than quick-fix answers.

Key Takeaways

• Interim leadership is high impact, requiring rapid delivery and a focus on legacy over ego.
• The most successful regeneration projects often come from getting the basics right, not chasing complexity.
• Financial pressures demand that leaders prioritise sustainable, achievable projects over grand long-term visions.
• Experience and humility are essential to driving sector success and inspiring the next generation.

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