David Sparks

Biographical Information
"Councillor David Sparks is Leader of Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council. He is also Vice Chair of the LGA and Leader of the Labour Group and a Member of the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party. Born in Warrington in 1948 and educated in Warrington and Widnes, David went on to further education and gained a BA in Politics at Lancaster University. He also gained a Diploma in Careers Guidance from Manchester Polytechnic and a Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety from Bilston Community College.

"He was employed as a Career Adviser in Birmingham from 1972 to 2009. From 1977 to 1986, David served as Chair of the West Midlands County Council. He was also Deputy Leader and Chair of Strategic Planning and Vice-Chair of the West Midlands Regional Assembly. From 1987 to 1997 he served as a National Board Member on the Business in the Community and Groundwork Foundation. From 1999 to 2003, he served as a Board Member of Advantage West Midlands RDA, and from 1999 to 2012 he has been the Chair of Dudley Zoo and Castle. David's passions include rugby league – he was a qualified rugby league referee and is an avid follower of Warrington Wolves RLC. He also supports Everton FC and is a keen collector of second-hand books."

Affiliations

 * Vice Chair, Local Government Association