Cllr Nick Kemp was elected to Newcastle City Council in 2002 to represent the East End Ward, Byker. He held a series of roles including Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods. Cllr Kemp was elected to be Leader of Newcastle City Council in May 2022. He has worked in a number of sectors, and currently runs a public affairs agency. Cllr Kemp is a trustee of the National Centre for Children's Book.