Penny and Jo have worked together since 2005, initially as consultants in KPMG’s public sector executive search business. They went on to join Saxton Bampfylde and later GatenbySanderson, working as a strong client-facing and research duo, before continuing their collaboration in their last search firm where Penny established the local government practice.
Penny Ransley, Partner
Penny began her career in local government, holding entry-level officer roles in children’s services and then housing. She enjoyed a brief spell in the civil service, but realised her commitment sat firmly with local government and its communities. She joined a London borough during a period of unprecedented challenge and was inspired by the resilience and courage of its politicians and leadership team. In 2005 Penny moved into local government executive search with KPMG, and has supported the local government sector as a consultant ever since.
Over the past two decades she has led senior appointments across local authorities nationwide, but is best known for her extensive networks across London and the South, and for steering high profile chief executive appointments. Her feedback and interview coaching is highly sought-after; she thrives on helping people recognise their personal qualities and how to articulate them.
If Penny were a local government officer today, it would be in housing, as she has maintained a strong personal interest in social housing and reducing homelessness.
Jo Boardman, Partner
Jo joined KPMG straight from university and was immediately drawn to their public sector business, where her affinity for local government began. She worked as a consultant, leading on director and executive director appointments for councils across all professional disciplines. A secondment to a London Borough honed her understanding of and commitment to the sector. She moved to Saxton Bampfylde and then GatenbySanderson, later working as an associate focused on local government.
Since 2011 Jo has focused on executive search, securing high-calibre, diverse fields for some of the most challenging appointments across local government. She has also searched for the wider public and not-for-profit sectors, giving her a broad perspective on talent beyond local government. Jo is recognised for her insightful, tenacious and supportive approach.
If Jo were a local government officer today, she would gravitate towards adult or children’s social care because of the scope to improve outcomes for vulnerable people and families.