Join us in our London office
Our popular Monitoring Officer Conference returns to our London office this September, an essential event in these challenging times.
The training will be provided by Weightmans and Hoey Ainscough Associates Ltd and is designed for Monitoring Officers, particularly those new to the role as well as Deputy Monitoring Officers and others working in governance and standards and those who are aspiring to be Monitoring Officers.
The day will be co-hosted by Simon Goacher, Head of Local Government and Partner at Weightmans LLP and Paul Hoey, Co-Director at Hoey Ainscough Associates Ltd, the leading experts on the English member standards framework.
We will take a practical look at the role and responsibilities that come with the role of Monitoring Officer (MO), consider how to navigate the standards framework and provide essential tips on managing within a political environment.
It will also offer insights on the chief executive’s and members’ views of the monitoring officer role. The course will focus on real-life situations and scenarios, delivered by presenters who have considerable experience in acting as and advising Monitoring Officers.
Agenda
| 10.00 - 10.15 | Welcome |
| 10.15 - 11.15 | The role of the MO – what is it and why do it? Simon Goacher, Head of Local Government, Weightmans |
| 11.15 – 11.30 | Coffee break |
| 11.30 – 12.30 |
The MO and the standards framework
Paul Hoey, Hoey Ainscough Associates Ltd |
| 12.30 – 13.30 | Lunch |
| 13.30 - 14.00 |
Working in a political environment – a member’s perspective
|
| 14.00 – 14.30 |
The MO and the corporate leadership team
Karen Bradford CEO, South Kesteven District Council |
| 14.30 – 14.45 | Tea break |
| 14.45 – 15.30 | Working in a political environment – The tools of the trade and practical tips Miranda Carruthers-Watt, Hoey Ainscough Associates Ltd, former Monitoring Officer |
| 15.30 – 16.15 | Case study discussion |
| 16.15 | Close |
Date: 30 September 2026
Time: 10.00am – 4.15pm
Location: Weightmans, The Hallmark Building, 105 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 5JG
