A senior officer from Neath Port Talbot Council has scooped a top award for his leadership qualities.
Steve Kidwell, from the housing renewal and regeneration service, has been ‘highly commended’ in the Leadership in Public Sector category of this year’s Leading Wales Awards. One of only five in Wales to achieve this.
The Leading Wales Awards recognise and celebrate personal achievement in outstanding leadership and management in Wales, at all levels in business – public service, not for profit organisations and the community on the basis that good leadership is the key driver to economic success in Wales.
They look at how an individual, through good leadership, has made a difference, what changes have been made and how the changes were made for the better, especially in this time of financial restraints.
Now in its 7th year, judges described the nominations this year as impressive and inspirational.
Nominated by his colleagues, Steve’s influence and positive attitude has helped change the culture of the service which in turn has impacted on the whole organisation.
Following an internal system review on his service, Steve now delivers presentations across the UK sharing good practice with other local authorities.
His innovative methods also include setting up the Council’s private trading company, Property Bay Wales which follows in the footsteps of the highly successful NPT Home Inspection Services, set up three years ago.
Steve said, “This Highly Commended certificate is recognition of the work that the council is doing to promote leadership within its organisation.
“It is also a personal milestone for me and I am honoured to have been chosen for this recognition, especially when considering the calibre of the three finalists. I also have to mention the hard work and dedication of my team who have been instrumental in helping us achieve this recognition.”
Leader of Council, Ali Thomas, added, “I congratulate Steve on his achievement – it is well deserved and shows how the Council champions good leadership.
“Coming up with innovative ideas and doing things better can only mean a better, more cost effective service for residents.”
