Biography

Steve’s long involvement in local government has convinced him of the need for more open, accountable and effective local democracy.

He currently works for the Labour Group of the Local Government Association and is Secretary General of the Union of Socialist Elected Local and Regional Representatives in Europe. Locally, Steve is Chair of University Hospital, Lewisham NHS Trust and a trustee of the renowned Horniman Museum.

Steve was Leader of the London Borough of Lewisham from 1988 to 1993. This followed six years as a councillor in the Borough, during which time he served as Chair of Finance, Chair of Leisure and Deputy Leader. He was also Chair of the Local Government Management Board for several years, Deputy Chair of the Association of Metropolitan Authorities and Chair of the Association of London Authorities.

Steve worked for the GLC in London for 10 years until its abolition in 1986. For part of that time, he was Ken Livingstone’s policy assistant and played a key role in developing the ‘Fares Fair’ scheme. And between giving up the LBL Leadership and joining the LGA, Steve worked as a consultant and trainer with the Capita Group.

While a member of the Commission for Local Democracy chaired by Simon Jenkins, in 1996 he co-wrote with Professor Robin Hambleton a major report, ‘Revitalising Local Democracy – the Leadership Options’. This argued the case for the separation of the executive and representational roles of councillors.

In the early 90s, Steve was seen as the friendly face of local government in the BBC’s “fly on the wall” series ‘Town Hall’.

Born and brought up in North Yorkshire, Steve has lived in Lewisham with his wife and three cats for 25 years. Outside of politics, he is passionate about folk music, football and Triumph Heralds.

To find out more about what makes Steve tick follow the link below....