THE EXECUTIVE Director of Rugby Borough Council – who stepped into her leadership position just two weeks before lockdown – has been recognised for her contribution to the community as part of West Midlands Employers (WME) #EverydayHeroes campaign.
Mannie Ketley has worked her way up into the position over 15 years and six jobs, so was feeling ready for the role – but she describes having a rollercoaster of emotions since becoming Executive Director.
She said: “The initial excitement of being offered the role turned into real apprehension having seen what was happening around the world.
“It’s been really sobering with the reality of the tragic stories that we are hearing in our own country and an overriding sense of making sure that we focus on doing what we need to do to keep our residents, businesses, communities and employees safe.”
Mannie says things won’t go back to how they were before.
“Most organisations will be a different shape and size,” she said. “Home working is certainly here to stay, we’ve proved we can be productive at home. And digital is too – people can and will access services online.
“I hope the work flexibility, community spirit and willingness to shop locally remains post-lockdown.”
She credits her team for their rapid response to the pandemic.
“Everyone has made a key contribution. Those who remained in the substantive roles have really pulled the stops out, and those who have been redeployed to new roles have risen to the challenge.
“Without such dedication, success would just not be possible. I’m hugely grateful and so proud of everyone. For many it’s been a brilliant reminder of why we do what we do – to make a difference.”
Rebecca Davis, Chief Executive of West Midlands Employers, said: “It’s been fantastic to hear how Mannie stepped into the Executive Director position and hit the ground running when the pandemic hit.
“Like other council leaders across the country she has faced a particularly difficult period where she has had to respond to the ongoing changing pandemic situation but also plan for the council’s recovery.”
Local authority improvement body WME, owned by 33 councils across the West Midlands, launched the campaign this month to recognise council workers who are working around the clock to keep essential services running and keep residents safe through the coronavirus crisis. Visit www.wmheroes.co.uk/meet-your-heroes to nominate a council worker for the award.
