Dr Debbie Fletcher

Dr Debbie Fletcher joined Local Partnerships in September 2023.

Debbie is Head of Devolution and Circular Economy, supporting Welsh Government, DEFRA programmes and local authorities, exploring both policy options and practical ways to deliver reductions in consumption through circular economy initiatives. Drawing on more than 16 years’ experience in the waste and resources sector as an environmental consultant, Debbie’s work specialises in driving forward the circular economy by providing insight on how policy translates into practice for businesses and the public sector. She was selected to be a part of the DEFRA Circular Economy Taskforce, an independent expert advisory group established in November 2024 to assist the UK government in developing a circular economy strategy for England. She has a Ph.D. in Geographical Sciences from the University of Bristol and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management.

Debbie has managed and delivered many projects working on behalf of local authorities looking to develop waste and resources strategies, improve and/or procure waste management services, secure treatment options, and deliver efficiency savings. She also worked as a business analyst for Bristol City Council where she was involved in business process improvement for a number of service areas, including waste and streetscene, estates management, local taxation, customer services and scientific services.

Her recent work includes the high-profile Wales Packaging EPR project, where she supported Welsh Government with practical, evidence-based advice on extended producer responsibility.

Debbie brings a strong mix of expertise, including leading technically complex projects, collaborating with industry, the public sector and NGOs, and developing financial and environmental models. She is also known for her ability to distil complex information into clear, actionable reports and briefings for public and political audiences.

Outside of work, she’s an avid runner, cyclist, and hiker who thrives in the outdoors and proudly holds the title of Brompton World Champion 2008.