We are thrilled to announce that Alison McKenzie-Folan OBE, Chief Executive of Wigan Council, has been reappointed as Executive Chair of iNetwork for a further two-year term.
Over the past two years, Alison has brought exceptional leadership, energy, and vision to iNetwork. Working closely with the Executive Board, she has helped set a clear three-year strategic direction for the organisation, ensuring that iNetwork continues to grow and evolve to meet the needs of its members and partners.
Under Alison’s guidance, iNetwork has introduced new services and programmes that strengthen collaboration and innovation across the public sector. These include:
- Champions Programme – empowering individuals across our network to share expertise and drive best practice.
- Shared Savings Programme – helping organisations collaborate on procurement and identify opportunities for joint savings, ensuring better value for money and more efficient use of resources.
Alison has also used her profile and influence to shine a spotlight on iNetwork’s work nationally, championing our core delivery programmes such as SAVVI (Scalable Approach to Vulnerability via Interoperability), delivered through iStandUK, part of the iNetwork family. Her advocacy ensures that iNetwork’s voice is heard in key conversations about innovation, digital transformation, and public service reform.
As Chief Executive of Wigan Council, a council recognised nationally for transformation and innovation, Alison brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. Wigan Council has been named ‘Council of the Year’ three times in the past five years, and its recent LGA Peer Review praised its resilience, innovation, and strong culture of engagement.
Alison is also a leading advocate for digital transformation, serving as a Board Member for Solace, Open Data Manchester, and Digital Leaders, and has been recognised as one of Greater Manchester’s most influential digital leaders. Her commitment to collaboration, technology, and inspiring the next generation of leaders aligns perfectly with iNetwork’s vision.
We are excited to continue working with Alison as we build on these achievements and explore new opportunities to support our members and partners. Her dedication to public service and innovation will help ensure that iNetwork remains at the forefront of delivering better outcomes for communities across the region.
Please join us in congratulating Alison on her reappointment and in looking forward to another two years of impactful leadership.