The Local Government Challenge, now in its third year, is designed to give staff with the drive and determination to reach the top, the opportunity to demonstrate their individual and team-working skills. Open to employees in the LGA’s member authorities, contestants will undertake a series of challenges in a range of council services.

Ten contestants will take part in five tough challenges between January and May 2012. The challenges will reflect the local, national and global issues of political and public relevance, and test each candidate’s creative, communication and leadership skills. Contestants will be observed every step of the way by a panel of leading local government figures and partner organisations.

The winner of the LG Challenge, who will be announced at the LG Group Annual Conference in Birmingham in June 2012, can look forward to a career enhancing scholarship worth up to £10,000 from the Bruce Lockhart Leadership Programme.