Iain established Sovereign Strategy with Alan Donnelly, becoming Chief Executive before taking up his role as Deputy Chairman in April 2009.

Previously, Iain served as Chief of Staff to Alan Donnelly the former Leader of the European Parliamentary Labour Party. Within a broad remit that covered: speech writing; media relations; and co-ordinating Alan’s political diary – Iain was instrumental in establishing a number of economic and social forums throughout the North East of England which included regular contact with key public and private sector partners.

Iain was appointed Special Advisor to the Co-operative Commission that was launched by the Prime Minister in January 2000.

In public office, Iain was elected to South Tyneside Council in May 1988 and currently serves as Leader.

Iain was elected to South Tyneside Council in May 1988 and is a previous Chair of the North East Purchasing Organisation. He is currently Leader of the Council, Chairs the Board at Newcastle International airport, and is a member of the Boards of the North East LEP and Combined Authority. He also plays an active role in the Local Government Association.

Email: iain.malcolm@sovereignstrategy.com