Salford welcomes new chief executive with bold vision for future growth

Stephen Young has officially taken the reins as Chief Executive of Salford City Council, stepping into one of the region’s most influential local government roles with a clear focus on fairness, inclusion and transformation.

Mr Young, who started his public sector career in 1995, joins Salford with more than 30 years of experience, including 17 in senior leadership. His previous post was as Chief Executive at Halton Borough Council, where he had served since March 2022. He also held high-level positions at Lancashire and Bolton councils.

He replaces interim chief executive Melissa Caslake, who returns to her role as Executive Director for Children’s Services.

In addition to leading the council, Mr Young now takes on several statutory responsibilities: Head of Paid Service, Returning Officer for local elections, Electoral Registration Officer, and Greater Manchester’s Place Based Lead for Health.

The timing of his appointment is significant. Salford is currently pursuing a bold vision to create a fairer, greener and more inclusive city by 2028. The council has identified seven priority areas to drive its transformation, which Mr Young will now oversee as part of the senior leadership team.

Reflecting on his first day in office, Mr 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 welcomed Mr Young’s arrival and praised his track record:

“Stephen’s 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.

“His leadership will be vital as we tackle the housing crisis, shape the future of health and care integration, and ensure our city’s voice is heard in the evolving landscape of devolution.”

Mr Dennett also expressed gratitude to interim chief executive Melissa Caslake for her leadership during a period of transition.

The appointment comes at a time when Salford City Council has received national recognition. The authority was recently named “Best Place to Work” by the Local Government Chronicle and Salford itself earned the title of “City of the Year” at the 2024 EG Estates Gazette Awards.

Mr Young’s arrival signals a renewed momentum for Salford’s future, as the city continues to evolve and invest in local communities across housing, health, education and transport.