Mark Ryder Strategic Director for Communities
In conversation with… Mark Ryder, Strategic Director for Communities
Mark Ryder joined Warwickshire County Council in 2003 from Gloucestershire County Council, having previously worked for both Devon and Somerset County Councils. Mark’s professional background is in consumer law and, since starting local authority work in 1987, he has enjoyed different roles within Trading Standards Services. Mark is originally from North Devon and now lives in Warwick with his wife and two teenage sons. Mark enjoys running, playing football, and follows the fortunes of West Bromwich Albion Football Club.
What do you do day-to-day at WCC?
As Strategic Director, I see my role as supporting all staff and teams to deliver the best outcomes for Warwickshire. I spend much of my day meeting with colleagues and partners, steering the work of project boards and making decisions with the intention of maximising the positive impact of our resources.
Tell us about the Communities Directorate…
The Communities Directorate is made up of about 1,500 colleagues and includes a huge range of frontline services with the objective of delivery positive outcomes for residents and businesses in Warwickshire. Our responsibilities include transport, planning, education, fire and rescue and economy & skills.
How do these services make a difference to Warwickshire communities?
We support the development and effective running of key transport and infrastructure. For example, we ensure that Warwickshire’s waste is disposed of in the most environmentally friendly way possible, we make sure that schools are supported to deliver a high-quality education to children, and our fire and rescue service and community safety teams protect residents and keep them safe.
How does the Communities Directorate support the Council’s three strategic priorities?
We support a vibrant economy by ensuring the county is a good place to do business. We make sure that people can live their best lives in Warwickshire by working in partnership to ensure communities continue to have low crime and our roads are as safe as possible. Finally, we support the county to have a sustainable future by fulfilling our climate change programme and achieving net zero emissions across the county by 2050, if not sooner.
How would you describe working at WCC?
A truly inclusive working environment that is supportive of all who chose to work here. It’s a dynamic workplace with lots of opportunity and lots of great people to work with.
How is WCC different to other places you have worked?
Warwickshire has a superb team ethic. Everyone collaborates and works in partnership, it’s a strong way of working beyond what I have experienced anywhere else. If you could achieve one more thing for residents in Warwickshire, what would it be? A greater collaboration between schools and colleges and our local businesses so that together we can all do more to rise the aspirations of young people and enable them to enter the world of work with confidence.
What is your favourite part of your role?
I love seeing projects come to fruition, particularly those where I’ve had strong involvement. I also enjoy supporting others to find their own solutions. It’s inspiring to watch people grow and excel, especially if I have had a part to play in their development.
Finally, what is your favourite place in Warwickshire for a day out and why?
Kingsbury Water Park in North Warwickshire – because it’s beautiful!