CCN Team

Simon Edwards, Director

simon.edwards@local.gov.uk
0207 664 3002
Simon is the Director of CCN, responsible for leadership of the organisation, business management and all aspects of CCN’s membership. Simon has led the transformation of CCN into an influential and respected network which advocates innovative policy solutions on the challenges facing local government and the wider public sector.

James Maker, Head of Policy & Communications

james.maker2@local.gov.uk
0207 664 3009
James is responsible for the delivery of CCN’s full portfolio of policy and research aimed at influencing government on behalf of our member councils and supporting the delivery of effective and efficient local services. James also oversees CCN’s communications, parliamentary, Whitehall and public affairs engagement work.

Jonathan Rallings, Senior Policy Officer

jonathan.rallings@local.gov.uk
0207 664 3198
Jon leads the CCN’s work on people-based areas of the network’s policy and research, overseeing our work across adults and children’s social care, alongside CCN advocacy on education. He leads the network’s work on health and social care reform and integration. Jon joined the CCN team in early 2019 having previously been an assistant director at children’s charity Barnardo’s and specialising in children’s advocacy over a number of years prior.

Peter French, Senior Policy Officer

peter.french@local.gov.uk
0207 664 3006
Peter leads on the CCN’s place-based policy areas and research. His remit includes leading work on economic growth, housing, spatial planning, and infrastructure.

James Holden, Senior Policy Officer & Public Affairs

james.holden@local.gov.uk
0207 664 3037
James leads on CCN’s policy development and research on business rates and fair funding, skills, social mobility, and devolution, as well as leading the network’s public affairs engagement work.

Ian Burbidge, Senior Media and Communications Officer

ian.burbidge@local.gov.uk
0207 664 3018
Ian is responsible for CCNs communications, marketing, and public affairs support. In his role, Ian leads both external and internal communications, including press releases, media relationships, newsletters, and articles. He acts as the first port of call for journalists.

Ellie Skinner, Policy and Public Affairs Officer

ellie.skinner@local.gov.uk
020 7664 3102

Ellie supports CCN’s policy and advocacy work as a member of the network’s policy team, providing dedicated research and support. She joined the network at the end of 2019 from Cornwall Council where she worked on devolution, climate change and future policy development.