Salford City Council welcomes new Chief Executive

Stephen Young has officially joined Salford City Council today (01 September) in his role as the new Chief Executive. He also joins as Head of Paid Service, Returning Officer for all relevant elections in Salford, and as Electoral Registration Officer and will become the Place Based Lead for Health for Greater Manchester.

He has been Chief Executive of Halton Borough Council since March 2022, bringing a wealth of experience and 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.

Stephen joins an award-winning council which won the “Best Place to Work” by Local Government Chronicle in 2024 and saw Salford crowned 'City of the Year' at the EG Estates Gazette Awards 2024.

It is also a pivotal moment for the council as it continues the work of building a fairer, greener, more inclusive Salford, which will guide the city to 2028. The vision sets out seven priorities that will provide the focus of the council’s work as Salford continues its remarkable story of transformation to build on past successes and improve residents’ lives.

Commenting on his new role as Chief Executive at Salford City Council, Stephen Young said:

“Salford is an incredible city – full of energy, pride and potential. I’m looking forward to working in an innovative organisation with elected members, colleagues, partners and local communities to help drive forward our shared ambitions to make a real impact. 

“Salford has a rich history with much to be proud of, and even more to look forward to. This is an exciting new chapter that will be firmly focused on the council’s vision aimed at supporting communities, tackling inequality and continuing to work with partners to deliver for this great city.”

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:

“I am delighted to welcome Stephen as he begins his first day as Chief Executive, ushering in a new chapter of leadership and ambition for the city. His experience, expertise and track record in the public sector, particularly delivering growth through regeneration and improving outcomes for children and young people, are firmly aligned with our organisational values.

“As we continue to address key challenges and opportunities, including tackling the housing crisis, shaping the future of health and care integration, to ensuring our city’s voice is heard in the evolving landscape of devolution, Stephen’s leadership will be vital in strengthening our partnerships and delivering for our communities.

“I’d like to thank Melissa Caslake for her leadership and dedication as our Interim Chief Executive, which has seen her unwavering commitment and steady guidance deliver for both the organisation, our residents and the city. I look forward to continuing to work alongside Melissa in her role as Executive Director for Children’s Services.”