Salford City Council has confirmed the appointment of a new Chief Executive, the permanent successor to Tom Stannard, who departed the role in January.
Stephen Young has been appointed to the role. He is currently Chief Executive at Halton Borough Council, a role he has held since March 2022.
Stephen brings a wealth of experience to the role, with over 30 years working in the public sector, with seventeen of those being in senior leadership roles. He has previously held the role of Executive Director of Growth, Environment, Transportation and Community Services at Lancashire County Council.
Other key roles include Director of Place and Assistant Director of Development and Regeneration at Bolton Council, having started his public sector career as a Council Tax Recovery Officer at Burnley Borough Council in 1995.
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “I’m delighted to confirm Stephen’s appointment; this really is an exciting appointment for Salford City Council. I’ve been impressed by his views and his approach to the public sector, firmly aligned with our organisation values.
“I was especially impressed with his track record of delivering growth through regeneration and of improving outcomes for children and young people in Halton. His experience and expertise of working for a Combined Authority make him the perfect candidate for Salford as we continue to work to ensure our city’s voice is heard within our own Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
“I’d like to thank Melissa Caslake who has been our Interim Chief Executive, for all her leadership and dedication and her calm, steady guidance and unwavering commitment to both the organisation and the city.
“I now look forward to working with Stephen, and to jointly leading our organisation through the next phase of delivering for the people of Salford – supporting our communities, tackling inequality, and continuing to work in partnership across the city and beyond to champion the work of Salford City Council.”
Stephen Young said “Salford is an incredible city – full of energy, pride and potential. I’m honoured to step into the role of Chief Executive and to work with elected members, colleagues, partners, and communities to help drive forward our shared ambitions. There’s so much to be proud of, and even more to look forward to. We’re entering an exciting new chapter, and I can’t wait to meet everyone, get started, and deliver for this great city.”
