Young appointed Salford CEO

Current Halton Council chief executive Stephen Young has been appointed to succeed Tom Stannard at Salford City Council.

Stannard left for Manchester City Council at the end of January and Melissa Caslake was appointed as his interim replacement.

Young is expected to join Salford City Council “at some point in the autumn”, according to City Mayor Paul Dennett.

Announcing the news, Dennett said: “Stephen will lead our organisation through the next phase of delivering for the people of Salford – supporting our communities, tackling inequality, and continuing to work in partnership with myself across the city and beyond.

“Stephen brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, with over 30 years working in local government in a variety of roles, including 17 years in senior leadership roles.”

For the last three years, Young has been chief executive at Halton Council. He took the job there after four years as executive director of growth at Lancashire County Council.

His appointment as Salford’s CEO will see Young return to Greater Manchester. He spent nearly a decade in various roles at Bolton Council and, prior to that, three years at Oldham Council.

“Salford is an incredible city – full of energy, pride and potential,” Young said.

“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.”