Dr Sarah Longlands appointed Non-Executive Director at MHCLG

The Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) is proud to announce that its Chief Executive, Dr Sarah Longlands, has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director (NED) to the Board of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), following a competitive and rigorous recruitment process.

Dr Longlands is a nationally recognised leader in progressive local economic development. At CLES – a UK-based charitable think tank – she champions community wealth building, social justice, and place-based policy. She will continue in her role at CLES while contributing her expertise to MHCLG’s strategic direction and governance.

With a PhD in Urban Studies and a career that began in local government in County Durham and North Yorkshire, Dr Longlands brings deep experience in spatial planning and inclusive economic models. Prior to joining CLES, she served as Director of IPPR North, where she was a vocal advocate for empowering regions and localities to shape their own future.

Non-Executive Directors are senior leaders from outside government who sit on the Departmental Board. They bring independent expertise, insight and challenge to help shape strategy, monitor performance, and ensure strong governance. While they do not take part in daily operations, their advice and oversight support ministers and officials in delivering the Department’s priorities effectively for the public.

Commenting on her appointment, CLES Chair, Professor Carolyn Wilkins OBE said:

“We are delighted that Sarah has been appointed to this important advisory role within MHCLG.  So much of the work that Sarah leads within CLES, particularly on community wealth building and place based economic development is hugely relevant for the challenges now being faced by communities across the UK. We are delighted that Sarah’s experience and knowledge is being put to good use within the National Government.  We look forward to supporting Sarah in her new role at MHCLG alongside her current work at CLES”.

ENDS