LATIF Online January 2026

Dan Bates is a finance specialist at LG Improve. He leads LG Improve’s Financial Resilience function, enabling councils to adapt to a leaner, more outcomes focused way of working.   Working with all types of authorities on financing and funding to modernise financial management, outcomes-based budgeting and well-being and social value. 

James is responsible for CCLA’s approach to sustainable investing. This includes our work to deliver real and lasting change through active stewardship, integrating environmental, social, and governance factors into our investment processes and ensuring that our portfolios are aligned with the values and mission of our clients.

James joined CCLA in 2010 and has developed and led programmes that have improved corporate behaviour on a wide range of issues including climate change, mental health, the Living Wage and modern slavery. This track record led to James being named one of Financial News’ 40 Rising Stars of Asset Management in Europe, 2020.

Prior to joining CCLA, James completed his PhD in economic geography at the University of Nottingham. He is a fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts.

Victoria is the Section 151 Officer at Leeds City Council, she joined the Authority in 2019 previously working at a number of Local Authorities both in Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire. Victoria started her early career working in the private sector within the Investments Department of an Insurance Company before joining the Public sector 24 years ago taking a role in Internal Audit.

As a Certified (ACCA) and CIPFA qualified accountant Victoria has experience and knowledge of working across both sectors, although she especially enjoys the challenges and extremely varied role of being the Section 151 Officer at Leeds City Council.

Victoria’s ambition is to enable the Council to be financially resilient and sustainable for the future ensuring the services provided achieve value for money and Public Money, while delivering the City Ambition. The Council’s gross Budget is £2bn with income around £1.5bn. Victoria is leading on a number of transformation projects including the Core Business Transformation Programme for the Council and the Financial Challenge for the Council.  

Victoria keeps active and enjoys walks around Chester with her family and two miniature schnauzers and a Wired Haired German Pointer and is also a season ticket holder for Manchester City.

Jody is the Chief Finance Officer at Cambridge City Council, having previously also worked at Uttlesford District Council. Prior to joining the local government sector, Jody spent 10 years as an external auditor of a variety of public sector organisations, as well as a stint as Head of Financial Accounts at the Royal British Legion. Outside of work, Jody volunteers with Explorer Scouts and enjoys organising camps and outdoor activities.