Councillor Thomas Robinson has been appointed as the new Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, taking on a key leadership role as the authority continues to focus on housing, skills, public safety and community services.
Robinson succeeds Councillor Garry Bridges in the position after Bridges was elected Leader of Manchester City Council earlier this month. He will serve alongside Councillor Tracey Rawlins, who remains Deputy Leader.
As part of his new responsibilities, Robinson will oversee a portfolio covering work and skills, crime and community safety, and emergency planning. The appointment places him at the centre of the council's efforts to support economic growth, improve opportunities for residents and strengthen public services across Manchester.
Robinson has served as Executive Member for Health and Social Care since 2022, leading the council's adult social care service. Under his tenure, the service recently achieved a ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission. He has represented the Clayton and Openshaw ward since being elected as a councillor in 2021.
Born and raised in Manchester, Robinson grew up in Ardwick and has spoken previously about how his experiences of growing up in a council flat and within a close-knit community shaped his commitment to public service.
Cllr Robinson said:
“As a born and bred Mancunian, to become the Deputy Leader of our city is truly humbling. In supporting Councillor Bridges as Leader, I promise to continue to put the voices of our communities as the heart of every decision we take in their service.”
Council Leader Garry Bridges said:
"It was an incredible honour to be elected Leader earlier this month and I've already been working hard on my priorities for the city.
"I'm delighted that Tom will be joining Cllr Tracey Rawlins to serve as Deputy Leaders.
"We have a long list of things we are determined to achieve for our city - from increasing the number of social homes, jobs and opportunities for our young people and better services on the ground. Tom and Tracey are incredible assets, and I look forward to working with them to achieve our ambitions."
The appointment comes at a significant time for Manchester, with the council focused on delivering more affordable housing, creating employment opportunities, and improving frontline services. Robinson's background in health and social care, coupled with his long-standing connection to the city, is expected to play an important role in shaping the council's priorities over the coming years.
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