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TOWN HALL'S THIRD CHIEF EXECUTIVE IN 25 YEARS STARTS NEW JOB

- By JOSEPH TIMAN

MANCHESTER council's new chief executive has started his first day in the job as the town hall ushers in a new era.

Tom Stannard, who was previously Salford council's chief executive, is only the third person in more than 25 years to take the top job in Manchester. It comes nearly eight years after his predecessor Joanne Roney took over from legendary leader Sir Howard Bernstein.

Ms Roney, who announced her departure in June, has now started a new job as managing director of Birmingham council. Manchester council revealed that Mr Stannard would be taking over as the new chief executive in October, shortly after Ms Roney left the post.

Manchester council says Mr Stannard joins at a 'pivotal moment' for the city which 'prides itself' on stability and long-term strategic planning. Speaking ahead of his first day in the job, he said: "I'm highly ambitious for Manchester and the people who call it home.