Ben Marston talks with Socitm’s director of engagement, David Ogden, on maximising Socitm’s Leadership Academy. As newly promoted Director of ICT and Digital Innovation at Sheffield City Council, Ben reflects on his leadership journey, the impact of Socitm’s Top Talent course, and how he’s embedding those lessons across his team.
Leadership, learning, and the value of networks
David: Congratulations on your promotion to director. How did Socitm play a part in your journey?
Ben: Thank you. I went through Socitm’s Top Talent course, and it really shaped the way I think about leadership. While other courses, like my MBA in Digital, were valuable, Top Talent gave me something different. It connected me with peers in my sector who were dealing with the same challenges, and that was unique.
What stood out most about the course?
Ben: The learning style. It was refreshing to be face-to-face and collaborative, rather than the usual corporate style. I really valued that. The relationships I built during the course have lasted – I’m still in touch with colleagues across the sector, and we continue to share experiences and ideas.
How has that influenced how you lead your own team?
Ben: It made me think about consistency. If I wanted my team to be effective, they needed a shared foundation of training and development. So, I worked with Socitm’s Leadership Academy to put together a plan that brought everyone up to the same level.
That’s made a real difference. It allows me to manage more effectively because I know the team has all received the same high-quality training. Socitm understand local government, so the context is spot on.
What areas have you focused on as a leader?
Ben: Delegation has been a big focus. By creating layers within the team, I’ve been able to empower people and give them more responsibility, which has proved really effective. It’s improved the way we work and given people confidence in their roles. It’s allowed for succession planning and opportunities just like I’ve had. I’m heading up a department with approximately 200 people so I need to have confidence they are given the freedom to do their jobs as I can’t be managing everyone day to day. This comes down to having that shared vision and outlook which the training from Socitm has played a big part in.
And what about Socitm more broadly – how do you use the network now?
Ben: The access to best practice in the sector or people doing innovative things we can learn from is fantastic. It’s not just theory – it’s ideas and experiences from people who understand the sector. That’s an amazing asset to tap into, and it’s something that continues to benefit both me and my team.
I’d encourage members to make the most of their membership. You get out what you put in. It’s not always easy to get away from the pressure of the day job but that regional event or online session might just connect you with someone who is facing the same challenge or has gone through an issue you are grappling with. The answer is probably with the membership – you just have to be present and visible to find it.
🎓 Find your next personal development course with the Leadership Academy
👤 Ben Marston can be contacted at ben.marston@sheffield.gov.uk
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