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Manchester City Council has announced Tom Stannard as its new chief executive, tasked with leading the city into the next decade. Following an extensive search to find a successor for Joanne Roney, who departed in August after seven years to take up a role in Birmingham, Mr Stannard will move from his current position as chief executive of Salford City Council.

Eamonn Boylan, former head of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), temporarily held the position at Manchester City Council but will now pass the baton to Mr Stannard.

Mr Stannard expressed his enthusiasm about his new appointment: "This is an exceptional role in an incredible city," he said. "I've spent a significant part of my career living and working in Greater Manchester and have a deep commitment to the city and its people. I'm eager to start work on the next chapter alongside Bev Craig [council leader] and all elected members."

He further highlighted the city's achievements and future aspirations: "Manchester is a city which is competing on a global stage and successfully attracting investment, jobs and visitors and it's important that we continue to maximise those strengths. Just as crucial is that the growth generated benefits the whole city, and I know that's something the Council is already working on and determined to achieve."

"While being unapologetically ambitious for the city's global future, I won't lose focus on the need to deliver excellent day-to-day services for Manchester people in the here and now."

Mr Stannard was hired following interviews conducted last Friday and this past Monday, with council leader Bev Craig playing a key role in the oversight of the process, reports .

Councillor Craig is set to work closely with Mr Stannard and has expressed confidence in their shared dedication to Manchester, stating: "Tom was our unanimous choice in a highly competitive selection process. He is a nationally respected voice in local government with an impressive CV and a track record of delivery across regeneration, inclusive growth and improving council services.

"We were impressed by his energy and passion, his clear understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Manchester and his ideas for the future. He is already a well-known figure in Greater Manchester and beyond and we are confident that he will help us improve the city over the next decade.