Bella Sankey is the Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, Labour Councillor for Wish Ward, Chair of the Greater Brighton Economic Board, and Deputy Leader of the Labour Group on the Local Government Association. Before entering local government, Bella built her career in human rights, equalities and social justice, including as Director of Detention Action. Since becoming Leader of the Council in May 2023, she has focused on the future of Brighton & Hove as a fair, ambitious and well-run city, with work spanning local growth, public services, housing, regional collaboration and civic leadership. Her role brings together political leadership, community representation and a wider regional economic perspective, making her a prominent voice in conversations about Brighton & Hove’s future, its challenges and its opportunities.