Wakefield council boss Joanne Roney has been named as the new chief executive of Manchester City Council, replacing Sir Howard Bernstein.
Her appointment comes at an important time for the city which is at the heart of the Northern Powerhouse initiative.
Following much speculation over the last few months about the future of the Northern Powerhouse, in the Autumn Statement last month the chancellor said Theresa May’s government was “fully committed” to the plan.
In September George Osborne also reiterated his commitment to the idea by announcing the formation of a new new think tank he would head up to fight for the initiative.
Bernstein had been one of the key advocates for the Northern Powerhouse and has had a 45-year career at Manchester City Council.
Roney began her career in local government as an apprentice with Birmingham council at 16 and has held the top post at Wakefield council since 2008.
Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We were hugely impressed at interview by Joanne’s drive, strategic vision and determination to ensure that all Manchester residents can be part of the city’s success story.”
Roney said: “I’m honoured to be in line for this prestigious role and looking forward to building on the legacy created by Sir Howard and playing my part, alongside Sir Richard and the wider team, in shaping the next phase of Manchester and Greater Manchester’s journey.”
The council’s personnel committee will be asked to recommend Roney’s appointment for final approval at Manchester’s next full council meeting on 14 December. She will then be expected to start the position in spring 2017.
