Today marks an extraordinary milestone – not just for Phil Swan, but for all of us in the local public sector who have had the privilege of working alongside him. As Phil steps into a new chapter as a civil servant at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), he also closes a remarkable era at Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and, notably, brings to a close more than two decades of dedicated leadership and service to iNetwork.
It is impossible to reflect on the story of iNetwork without recognising the profound influence Phil has had on its identity and direction. His leadership has shaped not only the organisation, but also the culture of collaboration and innovation that defines the iNetwork community today.
Phil’s journey with iNetwork began in its earliest days. As Director, he helped establish iNetwork as a trusted, sector?leading partnership that supports public service transformation across the North of England. Under his leadership, the organisation grew in reputation and reach – building strong relationships, fostering innovation, and creating a model of collaboration that many sought to learn from.
His tenure as Director set the tone for what iNetwork would become: a community that brings people together to solve complex challenges with openness, optimism, and shared purpose. Even after stepping down as Director in 2019, Phil continued to serve iNetwork with unwavering commitment through the Executive Board. His experience, insight, and thoughtful challenge have supported the network through cycles of change, uncertainty, and opportunity. To serve any organisation for 22 years is extraordinary. To serve with the consistency, energy, and generosity that Phil has shown is exceptional.
In one of iNetwork’s pivotal transitions, Phil once again stepped up, this time as interim Executive Chair. At a moment when the organisation needed stability, continuity, and confidence, Phil brought exactly that. He guided iNetwork through a period where the terms of reference were being reshaped, enabling the role of Chair to evolve beyond the Chief Executive of the host organisation. His leadership ensured that the network not only navigated this change but emerged stronger and more future?ready. Phil’s willingness to serve – whenever and however he was needed – has been one of the greatest gifts to the organisation.
Phil has also been a long?standing leader within iStandUK, an organisation closely connected to iNetwork and part of the same family. As Chair of iStandUK, he championed standards, interoperability, and collaboration across local government. This is work that has had a tangible impact on how public services share data and work together.
With Phil now moving into the civil service, he has stepped down from the Chair role, as the position requires a representative from the local public sector. However, we are delighted that Phil will continue to sit on the iStandUK Executive Board, ensuring his expertise and perspective remain part of the organisation’s future. We warmly thank him for his leadership of iStandUK and for strengthening the alignment between iStandUK and iNetwork over many years. And of course, because iStandUK is part of the wider iNetwork family, this is not a goodbye – merely a change in role.
Phil leaves behind a legacy defined by collaboration and innovation. He has supported stability by providing calm, strategic leadership through moments of uncertainty, and offered generosity: always giving more than he was asked for, and never seeking the spotlight. His work has touched countless colleagues, partners, and organisations. Many of us have benefitted from his kindness, his clarity of thought, and his ability to challenge with both intelligence and empathy.
As Phil moves into his new role at DSIT, we know that he will continue to contribute to shaping the future of digital, data, and innovation across the country. The civil service is gaining not just a brilliant mind, but a deeply principled and committed public servant. While we will miss his insight, humour, and steady presence on the iNetwork Executive Board, we are equally excited for what lies ahead for him.
On behalf of the entire iNetwork community: Thank you, Phil. For your leadership, your service, and your unwavering belief in what we can achieve together. Wishing you every success on this next chapter – you leave iNetwork better, stronger, and more connected than ever.