Statement from Leader of the Council on Chief Executive position

Stockport Council Chief Executive Caroline Simpson named as preferred candidate as the Group Chief Executive of Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM).

Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, said: “Caroline Simpson is widely recognised as one of local government’s leading Chief Executives and has led Stockport through considerable change and progress by delivering our ambitious £1bn regeneration programme whilst supporting our communities through nationally recognised services.

“Having someone of Caroline’s talent at Stockport Council has been a privilege and it has been a pleasure working with her during her time in Stockport. Caroline has shown massive commitment to partnerships such as One Stockport, to our workforce and as a place leader for health and care integration.

“Whilst Caroline will be a hard act to follow, we have big ambitions in Stockport as a Council and for our borough and the process of recruiting a new Chief Executive is underway.”

Cllr Hunter added: “Both Caroline and I are committed to ensuring that recruitment and appointment to the Chief Executive role is carried out quickly and smoothly and Caroline will be staying with the council for the full duration of her notice period.”

For further information visit the Greater Manchester Combined Authority website.