Leaders Lunch With Cllr Garry Bridges & Tom Stannard

Downtown in Business is delighted to announce an exclusive Leaders Lunch bringing together Manchester City Council’s new Leader, Councillor Garry Bridges, and Chief Executive Tom Stannard on Monday 19 October.

The event will give business and civic leaders the opportunity to hear directly from Manchester’s new political and executive leadership about the city’s priorities, ambitions and plans for the years ahead.

With Manchester continuing to experience significant economic and population growth, the conversation will explore some of the key issues shaping the city’s future, including housing, regeneration, investment, skills and inclusive economic growth.

Cllr Garry Bridges became Leader of Manchester City Council in September, having previously served as Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Children and Schools. Tom Stannard has served as Chief Executive of Manchester City Council since February 2025, bringing extensive local government experience to the role.

The event will provide DIB members and business leaders with the opportunity to gain insight into the council’s priorities, understand the opportunities ahead and put their questions directly to those responsible for leading and delivering Manchester’s next phase of growth.

Frank McKenna, Group Chair and Chief Executive of Downtown in Business, said:

“Manchester is entering an important new chapter, with a new political leader working alongside an experienced Chief Executive to shape the city’s next phase of growth.

“We are delighted to bring Cllr Garry Bridges and Tom Stannard together with our business network to hear directly about their priorities for Manchester, from housing and regeneration to skills, investment and inclusive economic growth.

“Manchester has a strong track record of working in partnership with the private sector, and we look forward to exploring how that relationship can develop further as the city continues to grow and take on new opportunities.”

The event promises to be an important opportunity for the business community to engage directly with Manchester’s new leadership and discuss how the public and private sectors can work together to support the city’s continued success.

This event is invite only. Email Beth.mckenna@downtowninbusiness.com to register your interest.