Matt O'Neill | Place Executive Director Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council

Matt O'Neill Is a highly accomplished public sector leader with over two decades of experience in economic development, regeneration, strategic planning and delivery of front-line services. This has been experienced gained working across different parts of Northern England: Cheshire, County Durham, Teesside, North and South Yorkshire. Working with all political leaderships, Combined Authorities in rural, coastal and urban environments covering District, Borough, County Council and Metropolitan Unitary Authorities.

 Currently serving as the Executive Director of Place at Barnsley Council, Matt provides strategic leadership across a wide portfolio including economic regeneration, planning, housing, culture, zero carbon initiatives, waste, neighbourhoods, highways, assets, environment, transport, communities and regulatory services.

Since joining Barnsley Council in May 2022, Matt has played a pivotal role in shaping the borough’s ambitious growth agenda. He is a driving force behind transformative projects such as The Seam Digital Campus and the Yorkshire Rose sculptures, which aim to position Barnsley as the UK’s leading digital town. He has also spearheaded two pioneering initiatives Health on the High Street, which integrates health services into town centre regeneration to improve accessibility and public health outcomes; and Pathways to Work, a Nationally significant body of work designed to reduce Economic Inactivity across South Yorkshire as one of the eight National Government Trailblazers. These initiatives reflect his holistic approach to place making—one that prioritises residents. Known for his ability to deliver complex programmes in politically sensitive and multi-agency environments, Matt is a strategic thinker and effective problem solver. His expertise includes project planning and delivery, securing external funding, asset management, and real estate consulting as a chartered surveyor. He is also recognised for his collaborative approach, working across public and private sectors to unlock investment and deliver social value.Matt’s influence extends beyond local government. He regularly contributes to national conversations on urban renewal, town centre regeneration, urban planning, surveying and sustainable development, including speaking national events and conferences.With a passion for place-making and a track record of delivering impactful change, Matt continues to shape the future of Barnsley and beyond through a deep commitment to community and resident focussed service delivery.