Harry Catherall

Harry started his exemplary career in local government as a 16-year-old apprentice, rising to the position of chief executive for two local authorities: Blackburn with Darwen Council and St Helens Council.

He has put his advisory skills and bold approach to good use shaping and influencing Government policy on key public service reform agendas ranging from health integration and education to cohesion and children’s and adult social care.

Harry, a qualified accountant, is passionate about educational achievement and the vital part it plays in raising aspirations and creating opportunities for all young people. He led Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Building Schools for the Future programme, securing £210M investment for local schools. He also launched a successful apprenticeship programme and graduate return programme.

Since July 2019, he has served on the Board of East Lancashire Hospital Trust as an Associate Non-Executive Director, contributing effective governance and support to help the Trust achieve excellent outcomes for the citizens of East Lancashire.