My First Few Weeks at Newtrality by Lee Danson

Lee Danson’s first few weeks at Newtrality

What attracted you to join Newtrality?

I was ready for a new challenge and knew I wanted to move out of local government and into consultancy, but I wasn’t sure which path was right for me. I was clear, though, that the large ‘big five’ consultancies weren’t what I was looking for – from a client perspective, they had always felt quite cold and transactional. 

When I came across Newtrality, what immediately stood out was its strong reputation and clear set of values. A a consultancy with a genuine commitment to working with the public sector, it felt different. Newtrality’s approach isn’t about ‘doing to’ organisations; it’s about working alongside local authorities in a collaborative way. 

It was clear that Newtrality knows who it is and is confident in its core values, which closely align with my own. I’ve spent my entire career in the public sector because those values matter to me, and joining Newtrality felt like a natural and ideal next step. 

What have you been working on so far?

I have been working with Woking BC supporting them to deliver the commercial programme as part of the Improvement and Recovery plan for the government intervention. I am also working on two separate LGR healthchecks. It’s a nice combination of subject matter and clients. As part of the leadership team I am working with Newtrality colleagues to further develop and shape our LGR products and offer. 

What’s surprised you about your first few weeks?

I was pleasantly surprised that without exception, everyone in the organisation was impressive. They were all passionate about delivering good quality fast paced work. Everyone was engaged and it was refreshing to see such high quality. Often in organisations there are a handful, I have never seen 100%! 

How would you describe the team and culture?

The culture is real. It is everything that I was hoping for and more. From day one. Whilst it is fast paced and expectations are high, I have felt support by the partners and the entire team. I feel supported and enabled. The culture is what makes Newtrality stand out from all other consultancies I have worked for in the past. 

What are you looking forward to next?

Making an impact in councils. Adding value and supporting them to deliver and also to grow. 

Quick-fire round

Three words to describe your first few weeks: Pace, exhilarating, rewarding 

One thing you’ve learned already: You are not working on your own, you have the consultancy (and that means huge experience and knowledge) behind you. 

Best part of your role so far: Knowing that the leap from 20+ years in the public sector, I can now make a difference across many councils.  

Tea or coffee: Always coffee