Localis appoints new Chief Executive

Localis, the leading independent think tank dedicated to the issues of localism and local government, has appointed James Morris as its Chief Executive.

James Morris has a strong track record as a policy maker as the Director of the innovative campaign group Mind the Gap in 2003 and as the founding Director of the London Policy Institute.

He has also been a successful software entrepreneur. As part of the appointment, the London Policy Institute (LPI) will collaborate with Localis by addressing issues of governance and urban policy in London and across the UK.

James Morris said: "I am delighted to be joining Localis at such an exciting and crucial time for the debate around localism and the future of local government.

"Localis will continue to lead the debate by focusing on producing high quality research and policy ideas as well as ground breaking events and seminars. The partnership with the LPI will also give Localis the opportunity to address issues of urban governance and policy more widely."

The Directors of Localis are Lord Hanningfield, Leader of Essex County Council; Paul Bettison, Leader of Bracknell Forest Borough Council; Paul Carter, Leader of Kent County Council; Merrick Cockell, Leader of The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea; and, Anthony Browne, the Director of Policy Exchange.

The Chairman of Localis, Lord Hanningfield, said: "Localis is going from strength to strength.  I am sure it will continue to shape the policy agenda at a time of great opportunity for local government across the country."

Merrick Cockell, added:  "I am very pleased that James has agreed to become CEO of Localis. This is an exciting time for Localis. Its role as a voice for localism and local government is more essential than ever.  I am also confident that the new partnership with the LPI will strengthen the work of Localis."