The chief executive of Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council has been confirmed as the first chief executive of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).
Eamonn Boylan will take on the post following the retirement of Manchester City Council’s Sir Howard Bernstein who held the post on an interim basis alongside his council job.
His appointment comes as GMCA is poised to hold its first elections in May for a directly elected mayor, replacing current interim mayor, Tony Lloyd.
Mr Boylan has been chief executive at Stockport since 2010, and has led the combined authority’s devolution work on housing, planning and investment.
Mr Boylan said: ‘Greater Manchester is a fantastic place and I’ve been privileged to work here for most of my career. To now take on the role of GMCA chief executive at this pivotal moment for our city-region is a great honour.
‘I understand the ambition and optimism of Greater Manchester and look forward to working with the mayor and leaders to ensure everyone in the region benefits from our shared success.’
Interim mayor Tony Lloyd said: ‘Eamonn is an outstanding strategist and innovator. His passion for Greater Manchester and determination to make a success of devolution shone through during the interview process.'