Tom Stannard is widely recognised as one of the most influential figures in contemporary British local government. Known for his strategic thinking, calm leadership style, and strong commitment to inclusive economic growth, he has played a significant role in shaping how major UK cities respond to social, economic, and organisational challenges. His career reflects a deep understanding of public service, regeneration, and the importance of collaboration between government, businesses, and communities.
Early Career and Foundations in Public Service
Tom Stannard’s career has been firmly rooted in public service from the outset. He developed his professional foundations within local government, gaining hands-on experience in policy development, organisational management, and economic regeneration. These early roles allowed him to understand the realities of council operations, including financial pressures, community expectations, and political accountability.
Rather than focusing narrowly on one discipline, Stannard built a broad skill set across economic development, place-making, and organisational leadership. This versatility later became one of his defining strengths, enabling him to lead complex local authorities with confidence and clarity.
His early exposure to regeneration programmes and partnership working shaped his belief that councils must act not only as service providers but also as convenors, bringing together public, private, and voluntary sectors to deliver lasting impact.
Rise to Senior Leadership Roles
As Tom Stannard progressed through local government, he quickly became known for his ability to manage large teams, oversee complex budgets, and deliver strategic outcomes. His move into senior executive positions marked a turning point, positioning him as a leader capable of navigating both political and operational demands.
Before taking on his most high-profile roles, he served in senior capacities across Greater Manchester, contributing to initiatives focused on economic growth, skills development, and regeneration. These experiences strengthened his understanding of regional governance and the importance of aligning local priorities with national policy frameworks.
His reputation for steady leadership and clear communication made him a trusted figure among elected members, officers, and external partners alike.
Leadership at Salford City Council
One of the most significant chapters in Tom Stannard’s career was his tenure as Chief Executive of Salford City Council. In this role, he led the organisation through a period of transformation, focusing on inclusive growth, organisational resilience, and long-term financial sustainability.
Salford, like many UK cities, faced challenges linked to funding constraints, social inequality, and increasing demand for public services. Under Stannard’s leadership, the council pursued a balanced approach that combined economic ambition with social responsibility.
Key areas of focus included:
- Strengthening the local economy while ensuring growth benefited all communities
- Improving collaboration with health, education, and business partners
- Building a culture of innovation and accountability within the council
His leadership style during this period was often described as pragmatic and people-focused, prioritising clear decision-making while remaining attentive to the needs of residents and staff.
Appointment as Chief Executive of Manchester City Council
Tom Stannard’s appointment as Chief Executive of Manchester City Council marked a major milestone in his career. Manchester is one of the UK’s largest and most influential cities, with a global reputation for culture, innovation, and economic dynamism. Leading such a council requires not only technical expertise but also political sensitivity and strategic vision.
In this role, Stannard oversees a complex organisation responsible for a wide range of services, from housing and transport to social care and economic development. He works closely with elected leaders to deliver the city’s priorities while ensuring the council remains financially robust and operationally effective.
His leadership in Manchester has been closely associated with:
- Long-term city planning and regeneration
- Inclusive economic growth and skills development
- Strengthening public sector partnerships across Greater Manchester
The role places him at the centre of some of the most important policy discussions affecting urban Britain today.
Approach to Inclusive Growth and Regeneration
A defining theme throughout Tom Stannard’s career is his commitment to inclusive growth. He has consistently argued that economic success should not be measured solely by headline investment figures but by real improvements in people’s lives.
This approach emphasises:
- Access to employment and skills for local residents
- Fair wages and good working conditions
- Sustainable development that respects communities and the environment
Rather than viewing regeneration as a purely physical process, Stannard advocates for a holistic model that integrates housing, transport, education, and health outcomes. This perspective has influenced how councils under his leadership design and evaluate major development projects.
National Influence and Sector Leadership
Beyond his direct council roles, Tom Stannard has played an active part in shaping the wider local government sector. He has held leadership positions within national professional bodies and advisory groups, contributing to debates on economic development, governance, and public sector reform.
His involvement at a national level reflects the respect he commands among peers and policymakers. He is often invited to share insights on topics such as:
- The future of local government funding
- Devolution and regional governance
- Leadership development within the public sector
Through this work, he has helped influence thinking well beyond the boundaries of the councils he directly leads.
Leadership Style and Professional Values
Tom Stannard is widely regarded as a measured and thoughtful leader. Rather than seeking publicity, he tends to focus on outcomes, relationships, and long-term impact. His leadership style combines strategic clarity with an emphasis on collaboration and trust.
Key characteristics often associated with his approach include:
- Calm decision-making under pressure
- Strong communication with elected members and staff
- A focus on evidence-based policy and continuous improvement
He is also known for investing in people, supporting leadership development within his organisations, and encouraging a culture where staff feel empowered to innovate and challenge constructively.
Challenges Facing Modern City Leaders
Like all senior local government leaders, Tom Stannard operates in a challenging environment. Councils face increasing demand for services alongside constrained budgets, rising expectations from residents, and complex national policy changes.
Managing these pressures requires difficult choices, clear prioritisation, and strong engagement with communities. Stannard’s experience across multiple councils has equipped him to navigate these challenges while maintaining organisational stability and public confidence.
His career illustrates the evolving role of council chief executives, who must balance managerial responsibilities with strategic leadership and partnership building.
Public Perception and Professional Reputation
Within local government circles, Tom Stannard is widely respected for his professionalism and integrity. Colleagues often describe him as approachable, well-prepared, and deeply knowledgeable about the realities of council operations.
While his work is primarily focused on governance rather than public profile, his influence is evident in the policies, partnerships, and organisational cultures he has helped shape. His reputation has been built steadily over time, grounded in delivery rather than rhetoric.
Future Outlook and Legacy
Looking ahead, Tom Stannard is likely to remain a central figure in discussions about the future of UK cities and local government. His experience places him in a strong position to contribute to debates on devolution, urban growth, and public sector reform.
His legacy is already visible in the organisations he has led and the people he has mentored. As cities continue to adapt to economic change, technological transformation, and social pressures, leaders with his depth of experience and balanced perspective will remain essential.
Conclusion
Tom Stannard’s career offers a compelling example of modern local government leadership in the UK. Through senior roles at Salford and Manchester City Councils, as well as his national sector involvement, he has demonstrated a consistent commitment to inclusive growth, effective governance, and public service values. His leadership style, shaped by experience and pragmatism, highlights the critical role councils play in shaping thriving, fair, and resilient cities. As local government continues to evolve, Tom Stannard stands out as a leader whose work will influence urban policy and public administration for years to come.
