COSLA has launched a new campaign to recognise and celebrate the role and contribution of female leaders in local government, recognise some of the barriers women face to elected office and leadership roles, and encourage more women and girls to see themselves as future leaders.

We have asked female Council Leaders, Political Group Leaders and Chief Executives to tell us about their experiences and to share how they’d inspire others to join local government. You can read our letter to female leaders in Local Government here. 

The first contributions to our campaign came from COSLA’s President, Councillor Shona Morrison, and Chief Executive, Jane O’Donnell.

We asked Councillor Morrison: What would you say to a girl or young woman considering a career in local government or standing for election? Why is this important? Why is she important? 

In today’s political landscape, where voices of diverse backgrounds are crucial more than ever for a balanced democracy, your presence and perspective are essential.

Local government exists at the heart of our communities, it has a direct impact on every aspect of our lives from cradle to grave. As a woman in this space, you have the opportunity to bring fresh ideas, challenge existing norms, and advocate for issues that resonate with your generation. This is especially important in today's climate. By stepping up, you contribute to a more representative government that reflects the values and needs of all our communities.

Your presence in local government is vital because it encourages others to engage in political processes and envision themselves as leaders. ‘You what you can't see'. You can inspire change, empower your community, and foster a culture where young women feel confident to pursue their ambitions.

To gain full gender parity, it will take to 2158, almost five generations from making this a reality. IWD 2025 campaigns for 'Accelerated Access'. Remember, your voice can spark movements and shift progress—embrace the opportunity to shape the future of local government!

We asked Jane O’Donnell: How do you encourage other women to excel in leadership roles?

I am lucky to work alongside very talented and skilled women in COSLA - both officers and politicians.  There are three things I focus on to encourage female colleagues.

Firstly, I have established a culture in the organisation which emphasises trust and openness and where we are deliberate in taking action when we do not hear views of women in our organisation.

Secondly, it is vital to recognise that equal pay and workplace flexibility are key to ensuring women thrive in the workplace.  These rights are far from realised across our society and we are holding ourselves to exacting standards on both these aspects of our work at COSLA.

Finally, and a key objective for me this year, is establishing a wide range of development opportunities - the move into leadership roles requires support.  Women benefit from mentoring from senior female colleagues, from participating in networks of female colleagues (both formal and informal) and from flexibility around workplace learning which ensures that female colleagues can take time for their own development.

We also asked Jane: What characteristics or actions have assisted you in your local government leadership journey as a woman? 

Primarily, my journey into leadership positions has been based on my very deeply held values - of public service, of striving for excellence and for partnership.  When things are tough or the answers to a problem don't seem clear, returning to those values has helped me find the way forward.

I have benefitted from support and mentorship from a range of other women leaders - they generously shared their experiences and advice and I found my own way through their help.  I would encourage all women leaders to find some time for mentorship.

Our roles in COSLA mean we work with a wide range of partners and colleagues and I have developed into this role through my experiences of working in partnership, most often when things are difficult.

Finally, I deliberately and consistently took time for my own development.  I explored ideas and practices which were new and unfamiliar but which were transformative in terms of my confidence and taking my skills to executive level.