Stockport Council appoints new Deputy Chief Executive

Paul Richards has been announced as Stockport Council’s new Deputy Chief Executive following the recent promotion of Michael Cullen to Chief Executive.

Paul brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to the role after leading Stockport’s much heralded £1 billion transformation programme as Chief Executive of Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC). He also served concurrently as Director of Development and Regeneration for Stockport Council, a role which he started in 2017 and has delivered schemes across the retail, leisure, office, and light industrial sectors for the Council who have taken a direct interventionist approach to changing its town through their £1 billion transformation programme.

Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, said:

“We’re delighted that Paul is stepping up to Deputy Chief Executive following many years of playing a pivotal role in the regeneration of Stockport. His efforts have significantly contributed to the transformation of the area, promoting economic growth, and improving the quality of life for our residents and businesses and we expect this to continue even further with Paul in place as Deputy Chief Executive.”

Paul Richards will continue working closely with the MDC in a Strategic Advisor role after leading the organisation since its formation in 2019. He said of his new role:

“I’m delighted and honoured to undertake more responsibilities at a Council that focuses on delivering the very best for the borough.

“We have seen Stockport change beyond recognition over the past ten years and I’m truly excited to build upon our work with partners to continue creating even more opportunities for those that need it most in the years to come.”

Recruitment for Paul’s replacement as Chief Executive of Stockport MDC, leading on the delivery of 4,000 new town centre homes 1 million sq ft commercial space, will commence imminently.