Recommended Chief Executive of New Stockport Council

After a rigorous selection process, the Board’s Nominations Committee will present its recommendation to the Special Meeting of the Board on June 20, 2024.

It is recommended that Michael Cullen, the council’s current deputy chief executive, be appointed as the new chief executive of Stockport Council.

Councilor Mark Hunter, Leader of the Council, said: “On behalf of the nominations committee, I am delighted to recommend Michael Cullen as our preferred candidate for Stockport’s next Chief Executive.

“Michael has extensive senior level experience and has established himself as an outstanding and credible candidate in an extremely strong field of candidates. Michael showed great passion for the people of Stockport and the future of our borough.

“I look forward to working with Michael on the ambitious plans we have for the borough in what is already a great year for Stockport.”

Michael Cullen said: “I have been honored to be part of Team Stockport for almost 18 years, so to be offered the opportunity to be Stockport Chief Executive is an honor and a privilege. I can’t wait to get started. The replacement of Caroline Simpson, a dear friend and colleague, means we can continue to build on the legacy she left and work even more closely with GMCA in the future.

“2024 has been a fantastic year for Stockport so far. There is a buzz in the air and I am excited to take on this key role on the council, working with councillors, partners, businesses, communities and colleagues to serve our residents.

I want to build on our recent accolades, such as being named the Sunday Times’ best place to live in the North West, by continuing our ambitious plans for the future, building on the fantastic work that has already been done, and going one step further to make Stockport not only the best place to live in the Northwest, but also the best place to live in the country.”