MICHAEL COUGHLIN

What I am working on at the moment?

I am an Executive Director at Surrey County Council with responsibility for transformation, digital, communities, prosperity and partnerships. 

Why I wanted to join the Participatory City Foundation Board?

I have worked alongside Tessy in a variety of roles and seen close-up and first-hand the power, value and impact of the approach she has developed, as exemplified by the Participatory City Foundation's work. I feel privileged to have the opportunity to be involved on the Board, through which my experience and values can benefit Tessy, the team, the Board and most importantly the communities at the centre of the programme of work.

A little bit about my background

I started my career in Leisure Management and spent 30 years in local government, including serving as Chief Executives at Crawley and Reading Councils and as an Executive Director at the LGA, with responsibility for leadership and improvement. More recently I spent 3 years in the private sector as UK MD and latterly Global HR Director at Bathroom Brands. I have served on numerous Boards and bodies in a voluntary capacity. Doing so at national, regional and local levels has provided me with insights into policy, strategy and delivery around 'wicked' issues and sustained outcomes. I play bass guitar in a number of bands, as well as squash and racquetball.