IPAWorld News
Richard Leese
Leader, Manchester City Council
Sir Richard Leese has been the Leader of Manchester City Council since 1996 and is Labour Councillor for the ward of Crumpsall.
He was born in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, and after graduating in mathematics he worked as a teacher and a youth worker. He was elected to Manchester City Council in 1984, chairing the Education Committee (1986-90) and Finance Committee (1990-95) before becoming Deputy Leader in 1990.
His 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. He is heavily involved in regeneration activity including being on the board of the East Manchester Urban Regeneration Company. His interests outside politics include cinema, music and sport - he is a regular swimmer and cycles to the Town Hall most days.