About Me

Councillor Syed Feroz Ghani is a distinguished member of the Labour Party, with over two decades of unwavering commitment to public service. His journey in local governance began in May 2014 when he was first elected as a Councillor for Valence Ward. Currently serving as the Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Enforcement in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, Syed has consistently demonstrated his passion for community welfare and a determination to improve the lives of all residents.

Throughout his tenure as a councillor, Syed has been an active participant in various committees and roles. Notably, he served as the Cabinet Member for the Public Realm from 2018 to 2022, where he played a pivotal role in enhancing the borough's public spaces. His leadership also extended to chairing the Assembly for two years and holding the position of Deputy Chair of the Ceremonial Council from 2016 to 2018. Syed's commitment to oversight and governance was further evident through his involvement in committees such as the Living and Working Select Committee and Children Services Select Committee.

In addition to his council duties, Syed has contributed significantly to the broader community. He served as a member of the Development Control Board from 2014 to 2018 and held the role of Chief Whip for the Barking and Dagenham Labour Group for two years. Furthermore, he provides valuable guidance to the Adult College of Barking and Dagenham as an advisor and serves as a dedicated school governor at Grafton Primary School in his own ward. Syed also acts as a Trustee of Barking & Dagenham Council for Voluntary Services (BDCVS), underscoring his commitment to community development.

Syed's professional affiliations reflect his dedication to various causes. He is an Associate member of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (ACILEx) and a member of organizations like Amnesty International, The Fabian Society, and The Institute of Leadership & Management UK.

Regionally, councillor Syed takes on important responsibilities, including membership of the Thames Regional Flood and Coastal Committee and the London Councils Transport and Environment Committee. He previously served on the East London Waste Authority from 2018 to 2022.

Before entering politics, Syed worked as a Members’ Services Officer in local government, giving him invaluable insights into public administration. As a Cabinet Member, his primary focus is on enhancing Valence Ward, Barking and Dagenham, and improving the daily lives of its residents. He advocates for funding to support effective policing and works tirelessly to foster community cohesion while addressing pressing issues such as serious youth violence, domestic abuse, and anti-social behavior.

Syed's portfolio also includes environmental crime, noise nuisance, trading standards, parking management, and the Council’s flagship Private Landlord Licensing Scheme. He chairs the Borough’s Community Safety Partnership, collaborating with statutory partners to review the Community Safety Plan concerning Children and Young People, Managing Offenders, Safer Borough Board, Serious Violence Duty Working Group, and Violence Against Women and Girls.

Education plays a crucial role in Syed's multifaceted career. He holds an LLB (Hons) degree and has completed an MA in Marketing, which equips him with valuable marketing, management, and legal knowledge. Furthermore, he is a graduate of the Local Government Association (LGA) Leadership Academy, enhancing his leadership skills to serve the community even more effectively.

Beyond his official responsibilities, Syed remains deeply engaged with the community. He conducts regular surgeries to address residents' concerns, attends local events, including street meetings and coffee afternoons, and actively participates in Safer Neighbourhood Team meetings and residents' gatherings. His popularity among constituents is a testament to his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on Barking and Dagenham.

Syed lives in Barking with his wife and two children, underscoring his personal investment in the community. His overarching goal is to be a fair and dedicated representative, ensuring that all residents are treated with equity and respect, regardless of their gender, race, or cultural background. Councillor Syed Feroz Ghani is a true champion for the people of Barking and Dagenham, dedicated to their well-being and prosperity.