As Penna concluded its 50th-anniversary celebrations in 2024, Penna was pleased to host a conversation with PPMA President Pam Parkes, as the association prepares to mark its own 50th anniversary in 2025. Led by our National Public Sector Recruitment Lead for HR & OD, Rachael Morris, the insightful conversation focused on the people profession, leadership challenges, and the future of public service.
Pam Parkes is a name synonymous with excellence and innovation in local government. Currently serving as the Equal Pay and Workforce Lead Commissioner at Birmingham City Council, Pam’s career spans decades and encompasses numerous authorities. Her expertise in Human Resources and Organisational Development has made her a sought-after leader and advisor in the sector.
Adding to her impressive credentials, Pam is also the President of the Public Sector People Management Association (PPMA). With the PPMA gearing up for its own 50th anniversary in 2025,
Beyond her work at Birmingham City Council, Pam is deeply committed to the people profession through her leadership of the Public Sector People Management Association (PPMA). Six months into her two-year presidency, Pam discussed with Rachael her early achievements, vision for PPMA, membership benefits, and the vital role of sponsors like Penna in supporting its mission, including talent programs and development initiatives for aspiring HR Directors (HRDs).
With funding cuts, increasing demands, and a workforce facing potential reorganisation, the challenges are significant. Drawing on her dual perspectives as PPMA President and Commissioner, Pam offered valuable insights into the current state and future of the public sector and the people profession.
Moving from an Executive Director position to a Commissioner role at Birmingham City Council, Pam shared her firsthand experience of this shift, discussing the challenges, unexpected surprises, and the evolving relationships with elected members, fellow commissioners, and central government.
With Penna's 50th-anniversary celebrations drawing to a close, the focus shifts to PPMA as they prepare to celebrate their own golden year in 2025. With an exciting year of plans ahead, we look forward to supporting PPMA as they celebrate their own golden year through various events and activities, including the PPMA Annual Conference from 9th – 11th April. We hope to see you there!
Rachael Morris – National Public Sector Recruitment Lead for HR & OD
LinkedIn: Rachael Morris
Email: Rachael.Morris@Penna.com