Sonika has spent over 20 years in local government, as both an officer and elected member, and remains passionate about the difference councils can make to people and places.

She began her career at Westminster and Ealing councils before joining the IDeA, where she spent 10 years working on improvement and efficiency challenges.

Sonika later joined the LGA, focusing on influencing government policy and working closely with MHCLG, DWP and DEFRA. She is now Assistant Director of Policy, leading the LGA’s work on place and the Rewiring agenda. She led on establishing the Leaders Council, creating a formally recognised structure for local government leaders to engage directly with the DPM.

Sonika was the first Asian woman to lead a political group on a council and is a former Cabinet Member for Children’s Services. A Cambridge graduate, Sonika has three children and, when she isn’t Ubering them around, enjoys running.