Steve Leach identifies the key challenges facing chief executives in British local government in operating in an environment where party politics is a dominant force. It discusses the basis on which chief executives apply for posts and manage the interview process, and the importance of the 'honeymoon period' - the first 6-9 months.

The Local Government Review raised issues of political process and decision-making theories. The interest lies in the insights provided by academic analysis, and the highlighting of the lessons to be learned. This volume attempts to respond to both these perspectives.