In this episode of ‘Fear Less, Do More’, host Gill Hunter sits down with Patrick Melia, the Chief Executive of Sunderland City Council. Patrick candidly shares his journey from starting out as an accountant to becoming a leader within local government, highlighting the bold decisions he’s made and continues to make within his role. Patrick shares the transformative journey Sunderland has taken to re-establish itself as a ‘smart city’, including redefining its public services and revitalising its economy.
Highlights include:
Patrick’s transition from accounting to local government and how this has been fuelled by his passion for innovation and a belief in the public sector’s potential.
Sunderland’s ambitious digital transformation under Patrick’s leadership, including partnerships with organisations like Microsoft.
Initiatives to attract new talent to Sunderland, including attracting talent from esports competitors and expanding local job opportunities.
The recent social unrest that Sunderland has faced and the community-led initiatives that help to counteract the isolation and division within the city.
Patrick’s long-term vision and goals for the city, and how he hopes for its residents to enjoy healthier, longer and more happy lives, driven by a hope for more continuous community collaboration and innovation.
