Sir Richard Leese

Richard Leese was elected to Manchester City Council in 1984. He became Leader of the Council in 1996.

Richard’s political interests include devolution, place-based budgets and the links between economic development and social policy, developing open democracy and the community leadership role of local authorities; and the role of cities in creating a sustainable future. He has a number of additional responsibilities including Director of Manchester Airport Holdings Ltd, Vice Chair of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Chair of the Association of Rail North Partner Authorities and Chair of the LGA City Regions Board.