Sir Richard Leese CBE
Leader, Manchester City Council
Sir Richard grew up in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. After graduating from the University of Warwick, Richard worked as a teacher in Coventry and as an exchange teacher in the USA before moving to Manchester to take up a post as a youth worker. Employed variously in youth work, community work, and education research 1979-1988, Richard was elected to the City Council in 1984. He held the position of Deputy Leader from 1990 to 1996, having previously chaired the Education Committee (1986-90) and Finance Committee (1990-95).
Richard's political interests include 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.
Richard is heavily involved in regeneration activity including being on the board of the East Manchester Urban Regeneration Company and being the Chair of Manchester Airport Group's Shareholders' Committee.
Interests outside politics include cinema, music, and sport as a spectator (principally football and cricket), a regular swimmer and cycling to the Town Hall most days.
