2nd September 2025

Michael Cullen: Long-Serving Chief Executive Faces Growing Scrutiny

Michael Cullen has been a fixture at Stockport Council for close to two decades, rising through the ranks from the finance team in 2006 to Borough Treasurer, then Deputy Chief Executive, and finally assuming the top position of Chief Executive in June 2024.

His deep familiarity with the workings of the council has been emphasised by supporters, who point to his stewardship during major regeneration efforts and efforts to align Stockport with Greater Manchester’s broader economic ambitions.

Yet, Cullen’s long tenure has not been without controversy. Concerns have been raised by local campaigners and residents regarding governance issues during his time in senior roles, with unease surrounding financial oversight, planning decisions, and allegations relating to residents’ rights. While these concerns are deeply felt among some community groups, it’s important to stress that they remain subject to investigation and have not been legally adjudicated.

Salary and Public Pay Accountability
Questions have also been raised about the level of pay awarded to the Chief Executive role, especially in light of heightened public scrutiny over senior council salaries. In 2019–20, Stockport’s Chief Executive received total remuneration—including pension contributions—of £178,135 Manchester Evening News.

More broadly, data from the Taxpayers’ Alliance indicates that the Chief Executive role in Greater Manchester councils—including Stockport—frequently places in the six-figure bracket, often exceeding the Prime Minister’s salary (around £172,153)—with many earning between £188,000 and £221,000 in total remuneration Mancunian Matters.

These figures are framed within a national context where legislation like the Local Government (Pay Accountability) Bill is being introduced to require council-household representatives to vote on salaries exceeding £100,000, underscoring growing demands for transparency in public sector pay The Sun.

In Summary

  • Tenure: Nearly 20 years with Stockport Council; Chief Executive since June 2024.
  • Public Concerns: Local campaigners cite issues around planning, financial oversight, and governance—though no formal findings have been published. The tone remains cautious pending formal verification.
  • Pay Overview: Previous Chief Executives earned around £178,000 in total compensation (2019–20), while regional trends suggest current pay likely remains high—potentially above the Prime Minister’s salary. The matter of pay is under increasing public scrutiny.