Public leadership
Public leadership is the navigation of irreconcilable tensions. Get help to generate more public value with work that matters.
4 Sep 2026
When we govern by means, we neglect the ends
You can't shrink your way to value. Here's what we get wrong about the public service.
22 Jul 2026
The irreconcilable tensions of public leadership
If you work in the public sector, embrace the frustration. The system is working exactly as designed.
6 May 2026
The tension is the engine
Why unresolved conflict may be the thing that keeps a life alive.
4 Feb 2026
Stop trying to agree with everyone
What Councils have taught me about making decisions under pressure.
31 Oct 2025
NSW local government professionals become Strategic Public Leaders in Sydney
Local government managers from across NSW came together for two days of strategic leadership training with Alicia McKay - in partnership with LGPro NSW.
22 Oct 2025
Politicians deserve more credit
Reflections from Mayor School.
21 Jul 2025
Local government is back in the firing line
They don't want reform, they want rates-capping. This is a bad idea, but it will play well in the 2026 election.
13 Dec 2024
How to be popular with voters and achieve nothing
Hint: its being a rock-throwing jerk.
9 Dec 2024
In defence of the bureaucrat
Spare a thought for your local public servant. Taking the boot out of the public sector, volume 3
6 Dec 2024
The difference between private and public value
Your retort to "you'd never run a business like this!". Taking the boot out of the public sector volume 2.
4 Dec 2024
Public service isn't inefficient, it's complex - there's a difference
Let's shatter the myth that the private sector would do government projects faster or cheaper: they don't.
12 Sep 2024
The difference between the public and private sector
In this video, learn the differences between public and private sector operating models. Discover why getting things done in the public sector is slower and more complex than producing outcomes in private business.
27 Aug 2024
Council Induction Masterclass - 27 August 2024
9 Aug 2024
Eiffel Tower leadership
Eiffel Tower leadership is bold, innovative and willing to endure short-term pushback for long-term gain.
1 Aug 2024
Local Legends: How to make a difference in local government
Local Legends is the essential guide to local government leadership for Councillors and Council managers.
14 Mar 2024
The paradox of public leadership (or: just give them the damn picnic table)
Are you putting the wrong thing first and letting bureaucracy stand in the way of public outcomes?
21 Jan 2024
How to ask bigger questions
Most people ask small questions, so they make small-time progress. Learn to ask big questions for bolder choices and better results.
20 Sep 2022
Greater Wellington Regional Council: Strategic Public Leaders
Over 100 Greater Wellington Regional Council managers have enjoyed Strategic Public Leaders training with Alicia McKay.
9 Aug 2022
Strategic Public Leaders Masterclass in Canberra, Australia
Alicia ran a sold-out masterclass for Mayors and Chief Executives at the ALGA National General Assembly in 2022. Watch the recording.
2 Jun 2022
7 reasons why public sector leadership is bloody hard work
It's not just you. The job is harder.