Meet Nicole, our new Leadership Development Officer
Nicole McKerracher joined our Organisational Development team in January 2026, taking on the newly-created role of Leadership Development Officer. She brings with her a wealth of experience in learning, development and transformation having worked for a diverse range of private-sector companies, including water services supplier Business Stream and Next. Her background spans technical training, digital learning, large scale change programmes and talent development, and she is now developing new ways we can grow and support our workforce.
Shaping a future ready workforce
Nicole is currently focused on designing and embedding a new Leadership Development Framework, ensuring we future proof our workforce. The new Framework will offer clear pathways to grow and succeed for people with differing levels of leadership, and those who aspire to lead. At its core is a recognition that the majority of learning comes from on-the-job experience, followed by interaction with others and formal training.
One of Nicole’s early priorities has been formalising and strengthening our existing mentorship programme and peer support groups, ensuring they are accessible, visible and valuable for colleagues at all levels.
“We are centralising our mentoring programmes, with defined goals and greater clarity for those taking part. It’s about creating the conditions where people feel supported and equipped to lead well,” Nicole explains. “Leadership at every level matters, so our framework needs to reflect that.”
Transitioning from the corporate world into local government has brought new insights.
“Coming into the council with no previous public sector experience has been a challenge,” she says. “There’s a lot to get to grips with, from political contexts to the very real pressures services face. But stepping in with fresh eyes has also been a huge advantage.”
Building connections, shaping what comes next
During her short time with us, Nicole has been meeting leaders and teams across services, hearing first-hand about the work they do, the challenges they’re navigating and the development support that would make the biggest difference.
Later this year, she will launch our first development pathway for Aspiring Future Leaders, a key milestone in bringing our Leadership Development Framework to life.
“I’m excited about the momentum we’re building,” she says. “There’s a real appetite for development across our council, and I’m looking forward to helping colleagues grow, progress and lead with confidence.”
To get in touch with Nicole or find out more about the New Leadership Development Framework, just email leadershipdev@eastlothian.gov.uk