Jack is a public policy researcher specialising in decentralisation and place-based policy. He previously worked on The Productivity Institute’s ‘Institutions & Governance’ theme. He now sits within the Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research at The University of Manchester.
Jack’s research considers how place-based policymaking is affected by the structure of multi-level systems. In simple terms: how do we move power downwards in a way that improves local policy and services?
His research includes an ongoing focus on spatial inequality: how do we decentralise in way that benefits disadvantaged places? Jack is particularly interested in the geographic distribution of governance, productivity, and public health. His academic contribution sits across the disciplines of political science, public policy, social policy, and regional studies.
In recent years, Jack has worked on research projects at the Universities of Bristol, Cambridge, Manchester, Surrey, and Leeds. He has worked in partnership with government departments – including MHCLG & DHSC – and leading think tanks – including the Institute for Government & Demos.
Jack has made important additions to the national policy debate, through both his written work (in blogs, media, journals, and think tank reports), and his spoken contributions (in public panels, policy roundtables, podcasts, and government committees). He has impacted issues around English devolution, local accountability, policy geographies, and public health.
Former research project: The UK Productivity-Governance Puzzle: Are the UK’s Governing Institutions Fit for Purpose in the 21st Century?
