Neil Wedge | Chief Executive
Neil brings a rich tapestry of experience to his role as Chief Executive, weaving together expertise from both the private and public sectors. After spending 25 years in banking and property, where he honed his skills in operational management and supported major cultural change initiatives, this Norfolk native charted a course into local government as Town Clerk of Uppingham in Rutland.
Arriving in Dorset just before the pandemic's onset, he took the helm at DAPTC in April 2020, armed with his CiLCA qualification and drawing on his extensive background in franchise development and communications. When not steering the association through the complexities of local governance, Neil can be found teeing off at Broadstone Golf Club or immersing himself in the vibrant arts scene of his adopted Dorset home. A family man, he shares his life with wife Jeanette, their two grown children, and as of late 2024, embraces the joyful role of grandfather.
Will Austin | Deputy Chief Executive
Will brings 35 years of senior local government experience to his role as Deputy Chief Executive, having spent 20 years in principal councils at Leicestershire and Dorset and Exeter. For the last 13 years Will was Town Clerk to Haverhill, Barnstaple, and Bridport Town Councils where he acheived success in developing partnership working, rescuing 'at risk' services and assets, devolution of services, community governance reviews, climate action, community budgeting, neighbourhood planning, and emergency response. His aim at DAPTC is to use that wealth of experience for the benefit of town and parish councils across Dorset.
Will lives in Bridport with his partner Liz, and has three adult children and a grandson, with another grandchild due in December 2025. An East Midlander by birth, he is a lifelong and ardent fan of Leicester City Football Club.
Brie Logan | Training Officer
Brie came to local government from a commercial background with strong roots in learning and development and continuous improvement. Her 7 plus years serving the Shaftesbury community as Town Clerk and Business Manager has given her a deep appreciation for the impact of local government and leading a cultural change programme at Shaftesbury Town Council was a particular highlight.
Brie's experience now inspires a desire to support others in similar roles by help parish and town councils thrive by equipping them with the knowledge, confidence, and tools they need to make a lasting difference. Brie's focus will be on delivering engaging training sessions, encouraging peer learning and helping local representatives and employees stay informed and connected. At the heart of it all is her firm belief in the power of local councils to build strong, resilient communities.
Clare Smith | Communications Officer
Clare has spent most of her working life as a graphic designer in one medium or another. She has produced material for print and digital distribution, designed, created and curated websites and managed social media campaigns. Clare became interested in becoming a clerk after observing her husband perform the same role and decided to seek a career change. In 2024 she was appointed as clerk and responsible financial officer (RFO) to Toller Porcorum Parish Council.
Clare's experience in design and marketing combined with being a clerk give her a unique insight into how to improve communications within the sector. She is responsible for delivering the e-News each week and developing the DAPTC website as a knowledge base for all our councils.
