A new chief executive has been chosen to lead Stockport council as the borough enters a period of transformation and challenges.

Michael Cullen has been recommended for the role after previous chief executive Caroline Simpson was chosen to lead the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Transport for Greater Manchester.

The chief executive is the head of the council's paid service, the lead adviser, and is also responsible for co-ordination, management, staffing, and dealing with emergencies.

Mr Cullen takes over as top boss at Stockport while the council is under no overall control with a Lib Dem minority administration, with two years until the next round of local elections in the borough.

He was considered a strong contender early on when the job became available, for having served as Stockport's deputy chief executive and his long-term involvement at the council.

The decision was made after an appointment committee on June 17, which involved councillors from different political parties in Stockport town hall.

Candidates from within the council and external applicants were considered for the role.

Sources from Stockport's Lib Dem, Labour, and independent groups have told the Local Democracy Reporting Service of their backing of Mr Cullen for the role, who will enjoy widespread support in the council chamber.

The journey from Stockport to Manchester town hall is becoming an established path, with GMCA's outgoing boss Eamonn Boylan also having served as Stockport's chief executive before moving to Manchester. (Image - Alasdair Perry)

But his appointment comes at a time when the borough is undergoing major regeneration – and facing a number of immediate challenges.

While projects such as building thousands of new homes and making improvements to transport infrastructure are transforming the borough, Stockport is facing a spike in homelessness and increasing pressure on council services.

There are also ongoing rows over Stockport's housing situation, as the borough does not yet have a local plan despite a shortage of homes.

The town hall's new chief executive will face the prospect of dealing with a new government after the general election on July 4.

Michael Cullen said: "I've had the privilege of being part of Team Stockport for nearly 18 years, so to be offered the opportunity to be Stockport's chief executive is an honour and a privilege, and I cannot wait to get started.

"To succeed Caroline Simpson, a dear friend and colleague, means we can continue to build on the legacy she leaves and work even closer with the GMCA in the future.

"2024 has been a fantastic year for Stockport so far. There's a buzz in the air, and I am excited to take this pivotal role for the council, working with councillors, partners, businesses, communities, and colleagues to deliver for our residents.

"I want to build on our recent accolades, such as being the Sunday Times Best Place to live in the North West, by continuing with our ambitious plans for the future, building on the fantastic work that has already been delivered and going one step further to make Stockport not just the best place to live in the North West, but the best place to live in the country."

Mark Hunter, leader of the council, said : "Michael has extensive experience at a senior level and established themselves as the outstanding and credible candidate in an incredibly strong field of applicants.

"Michael showed huge passion for the people of Stockport and the future of our borough.

"I am looking forward to working with Michael on our ambitious plans we have for the borough in what has already been a great year for Stockport."

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