WiredGov Newswire (news from other organisations)
Printable version E-mail this to a friend

The office of civic mayor

The office of civic mayor is steeped in nearly a millennium of tradition and history. The word ‘mayor’ derives from the Latin ‘magnus’, meaning great, and the role was introduced to Britain by the Normans in the 11th century.

The office of civic mayor is steeped in nearly a millennium of tradition and history. The word ‘mayor’ derives from the Latin ‘magnus’, meaning great, and the role was introduced to Britain by the Normans in the 11th century.

Each year, hundreds of individuals take on the role of civic mayor. Until now, there has been little in the way of guidance to help them get to grips with this complex role. But the Improvement and Development Agency’s (IDeA) Local Leadership Academy has published a new workbook to help mayors prepare for office.

Although not every council uses the term ‘mayor’, the workbook applies equally to other titles, such as chairman of the council and Lord Mayor. It is not aimed at directly elected executive mayors, who of course have a very different remit.

Councillor Edward Lord, member of the LGA Improvement Board, said:

"The office of civic mayor is an important part of a council’s governance structure. It is a demanding role and may be subject to complex rules, regulations and official procedures. While it is not the role with greatest executive power in the council, it is a vital part of modern local democracy, not a relic of days gone by."

Preparing for the role of Civic Mayor

 

 

Further information

Contact:

Paul Bailey, IDeA
telephone: 020 7296 6529
email:
paul.bailey@idea.gov.uk

Free, Secure, Compliant UK Public Sector IT Recycling Service