Future Leaders: Attracting Young Talent to Councils and Local Government

Local government has a people problem—specifically, attracting and retaining young talent. While councils play a crucial role in shaping communities, they often struggle to engage the next generation of workers. Outdated perceptions, legacy systems, and rigid structures make it easy for young professionals to look elsewhere.

But here’s the reality: Local government careers have the potential to be some of the most fulfilling. They provide a direct opportunity to make a tangible difference, drive meaningful change, and contribute to the communities people live in. So how do we shift the narrative and ensure councils are seen as dynamic, attractive workplaces for the future leaders of tomorrow?

Young professionals are digital natives. They expect modern, intuitive, and accessible technology in the workplace—not outdated legacy systems that slow them down. Councils must embrace digital transformation in a way that enhances efficiency while keeping employees engaged.

• Cloud-based systems and AI-powered tools for HR, finance, and project management.
• Seamless digital communication platforms that enhance collaboration across teams.
• Automated processes to remove unnecessary admin and allow employees to focus on work that actually matters.

The message here? If councils want to attract fresh talent, they need to look like future-ready workplaces.

Young professionals don’t just want jobs; they want work environments that align with their personal values and aspirations. They want to work in organisations that prioritise well-being, inclusion, and collaboration.

• Flexible working: Hybrid models, remote-friendly policies, and results-driven cultures.
• Psychological safety: A work culture where employees feel heard, valued, and able to contribute ideas.
• Purpose-driven teams: A clear alignment between personal values and organisational mission.

Culture isn’t just an HR initiative; it’s what gets people through the door and keeps them there.

Nothing turns off young professionals faster than a job with no clear path for growth. Councils need to rethink career progression and development strategies to ensure employees see a future for themselves.

• Structured progression plans with real promotion opportunities.
• Regular performance reviews that focus on growth, not just evaluation.
• Learning and development initiatives, including mentorship, leadership training, and professional qualifications.

A job in local government should be a career, not just a stepping stone.

Young professionals expect a say in shaping their workplace. Councils should actively seek out employee feedback and, more importantly, act on it.

• Pulse surveys and open forums to gauge workplace satisfaction.
• Employee advisory groups to co-create workplace improvements.
• Regular check-ins that focus on well-being, engagement, and development.

Engaged employees stay longer—and they bring in more talent with them.

An outdated digital infrastructure isn’t just frustrating—it actively pushes talent away. Councils must prioritise modernising their systems, not just for operational efficiency but to remain competitive in attracting young talent.

• AI-driven recruitment tools for fairer, faster hiring.
• Mobile-first HR platforms for seamless employee engagement.
• Digital onboarding experiences that don’t feel like admin-heavy initiation rituals.

Technology should empower employees, not create more work for them.

Young professionals want to feel that their work means something. Councils already have a strong foundation—serving their communities. The challenge is aligning this purpose with everyday roles.

• Clear communication about how each role contributes to the wider mission.
• Involvement in community projects and initiatives that connect employees with the impact of their work.
• Storytelling: Showcasing real employee impact through case studies, testimonials, and success stories.

People want to be part of something bigger. Councils need to make that connection explicit.

The battle for talent isn’t just happening in the private sector—councils must step up to attract the next generation of leaders. It starts with modernising systems, creating dynamic career paths, embracing digital transformation, and aligning jobs with a greater purpose.

Young professionals don’t just want jobs—they want careers that matter. Councils are in a prime position to offer that. The question is, will they rise to the challenge?