Outstanding leadership recognised as Andrea Mann is crowned Clerk of the Year at national awards
In a night of celebration and recognition, Andrea Mann, Odiham Parish Council, has been honoured with the Clerk of the Year award at the Star Council Awards organised by the National Association of Local Councils (NALC).
The prestigious ceremony hosted at the House of Lords brought together councillors, MPs, parliamentarians, academics, national stakeholders and leading opinion formers to honour outstanding achievements and contributions by local (parish and town) councils.
Andrea’s transformative leadership at Odiham Parish Council in Hampshire since November 2019 has significantly elevated the council’s performance and community engagement. Her strategic overhaul of internal processes improved financial transparency and budgeting proficiency. The Village Centre Action Plan, shaped by community consultation, resulted in successful grant acquisitions for various community projects, demonstrating her commitment to fiscal responsibility and community improvement.
Her adept negotiation with Hampshire County Council in 2019 saved the Odiham branch library from closure, transforming it into a thriving volunteer-run community hub. Despite challenges, including pandemic-related obstacles, Andrea’s unwavering tenacity secured grants, renegotiated leases and crafted a compelling business case for the building’s development.
Andrea balances leadership with councillor support, fostering open dialogue and encouraging collaboration between councillors and community members. Recent successes under her guidance include community-enhancing initiatives like the installation of picnic benches, the addition of a new community hub restroom, and a program to restore 70 council-owned benches. Her leadership shines in orchestrating vibrant street parties for the Jubilee and Coronation, delighting around 2,000 residents with diverse entertainment offerings. Her remarkable contributions make her a standout leader dedicated to the betterment of Odiham Parish Council and its residents.
Upon receiving the award, Andrea expressed her gratitude and pride, “I am truly honoured to receive the Clerk of the Year award. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of our council and the shared commitment to serving our community. I believe in the power of effective governance to positively impact lives, and I look forward to continuing our journey of progress and service”.
The Star Council Awards celebrate the achievements of local councils and their contributions to the well-being of communities. The Clerk of the Year award is among the most prestigious categories, recognising clerks who have demonstrated outstanding performance and positively impacted their residents’ lives.