The Greater Manchester Combined Authority Resources Committee is scheduled to meet on Friday 25 September 2026. The meeting's agenda includes the commencement of the recruitment process for a permanent Group Chief Executive Officer, as well as noting the committee's membership and terms of reference.

Recruitment of a Permanent Group Chief Executive Officer

A key item scheduled for discussion is the recruitment of a permanent Group Chief Executive Officer for the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA). This follows the resignation of Caroline Simpson in July 2026 and the subsequent appointment of Andrew Lightfoot as Interim Group Chief Executive Officer. The report, authored by GM Mayor Bev Craig, outlines the purpose of seeking approval to begin the recruitment process.

The committee is being asked to authorise the commencement of this recruitment process. The permanent appointee will also hold the statutory role of Head of Paid Service, as defined by section 4 of the Local Government & Housing Act 1989. The report also proposes the use of a recruitment executive search agency to provide independent support throughout the process. Additionally, the committee is expected to consider options regarding the Combined Authority Returning Officer (CARO) responsibilities as part of the Role Profile review. The CARO role is responsible for the effective coordination and delivery of the mayoral election across the combined authority area. ¹ The report suggests that locating this responsibility with the Group Chief Executive provides the necessary seniority and authority. Finally, the committee will be asked to agree on the members who will form the Appointment Panel, in line with constitutional requirements.

The report details a proposed recruitment process, which includes establishing an Appointment Panel, engaging recruitment consultants, and reviewing and refreshing the Role Profile. The proposed timeline indicates that the appointment of an executive search partner is anticipated for October 2026, with the advertisement campaign going live in January 2027, and a potential start date for the new Group Chief Executive in early July 2027.

GMCA Resources Committee Membership and Terms of Reference

The committee is scheduled to note the membership of the GMCA Resources Committee for the 2026/27 period. This membership was agreed at the GMCA meeting on 26 June 2026 and includes Nazia Rehman, Paul Dennett, Tom Ross, Eleanor Wills, Eamonn O'Brien, Bev Craig, and Mark Roberts. The committee will also note its terms of reference, which outline its purpose and functions. These include considering issues relating to human resource processes and policies, overseeing ICT and Property resources, and overseeing and approving the GMCA's Annual Business Plan.