Where in Yorkshire and the Humber are you based and how long have you been head of place for the region?
I am based in Sheffield and have been head of place for Yorkshire and the Humber since 2021.
To do the role well, you need…
To really care about the place in which you work and live, and the ability to build great connections across the region – as well as a deep understanding of the local strengths and opportunities and what people in the region truly need.
What is your proudest achievement so far in the role?
I am particularly proud of connecting civil servants in the region through our professional networks and bringing together a diverse group of civil servants from across a range of departments to help deliver our strategy for Yorkshire and Humber.
Who do you work closely with in the role, within and outside government?
Inside government, I work with civil servants in a variety of roles, grades and departments across Yorkshire and the Humber. Outside, I build partnerships with our fantastic local partners, from universities to local authority colleagues.
What makes the region the place to be?
As a proud Yorkshire woman, I can attest that the region offers a winning mix of stunning natural scenery and rich history. Crucially, it is also home to a diverse and dedicated community of more than 40,000 civil servants who do amazing work every day across a range of departments and roles.
What is the thing nobody knows about the place you represent?
Yorkshire and the Humber is leading the way in areas such as advanced manufacturing and financial services. Did you know that the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre in South Yorkshire Combined Authority has catalysed a cluster now including Rolls-Royce, Boeing, McLaren and Sheffield Forgemaster?
Is there a common misconception about the place you represent?
The big misconception is that you need to move away from the region to have a successful career. I am an example of the fact that you can have a thriving career right here in Yorkshire and Humber in a variety of professions and roles. I joined the civil service as an admin assistant and I am proud to have built a fulfilling career in the region I call home.
Where do you see the biggest untapped potential in the place you represent?
We have already seen an increase in the number of senior and decision-making roles within the region through Places for Growth. There is massive potential to further grow these roles in Leeds, York and Sheffield and to bring decision-making closer to the communities we serve.
As well as being head of place for Yorkshire and Humber, Susan Dawson is commercial director at the Department for Education