Eamonn Boylan dies as tributes pour in for ex-Greater Manchester and Stockport council chief
Andy Burnham is among those paying tribute to Eamonn Boylan
13:46, 02 Apr 2026Updated 14:40, 02 Apr 2026
Eamonn Boylan
Eamonn Boylan, a prominent figure in Greater Manchester politics for more than 40 years, has died.
His death aged 66 was announced today (April 2) by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), where he served as chief executive from 2017 to 2024. Mayor Andy Burnham described his death as a ‘devastating loss’ as he paid tribute to the ‘influential’ public servant.
Mr Boylan took the top job at the GMCA in 2017, giving him responsibility over Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) too. In 2019, he also took over TfGM and oversaw the process of bringing buses under public control for the first time in four decades.
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His 42-year career included working in local government in Manchester, Sheffield and London as well as serving as Stockport council’s chief executive before taking the helm at the GMCA. He was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to local government in 2023.
Mr Boylan stepped down after the mayoral elections in May 2024. Following his death, a book of condolence has been placed in Manchester Central Library.
In a tribute, Mr Burnham said: “This is a devastating loss, and my thoughts today are with Eamonn’s family, friends, and all those who knew him. Eamonn was the public servant’s public servant, and a giant of English devolution. He led from the front but was rarely in the spotlight, taking every opportunity to lift up and empower those around him.
“At the most crucial moment in Greater Manchester’s devolution journey, he took the foundations laid by past leaders and built it into an effective, efficient machine that continues to deliver. The fact that we are the UK’s fastest-growing city region is a testament to his leadership.
Eamonn Boylan(Image: GMCA)
“For the seven years we worked together he was a source of great support, guidance, good humour, and friendship. I will always count myself fortunate to have worked alongside him.”
GMCA group chief executive Caroline Simpson said: “I am so deeply sorry for Eamonn’s family and loved ones, and for all of us that had the privilege of working closely with him through our careers. He was such an influential leader, in Greater Manchester and English devolution, and his impact cannot be overstated.
“But he was also an inspiration to so many people personally; a friend and a mentor whose massive intellect, humility, humour and kindness shone through every day. His dedication and his determination to get things done will leave a lasting legacy here.
“He will remain an indelible part of the fabric of our city region’s growth and success.”
Councillor Mark Roberts, leader of Stockport council, said: “We are very saddened to hear of the passing of Eamonn Boylan and on behalf of the Council, I would like to offer our deepest sympathies to Eamonn’s family, friends and former colleagues at this very difficult time.
“Stockport is the place it is today because of the strong foundations Eamonn helped to build. His leadership gave our borough confidence, and his legacy can be seen in our town’s physical investment and ambition that carries through to today and the future.
Eamonn Boylan(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“Eamonn dedicated his life to public service and was held in high regard not just for his professionalism, but for the way he worked with people across the council and across political lines with a focus on always doing the right thing for local communities.
“On behalf of the Council, I would like to thank Eamonn for his service, his commitment to Stockport and the lasting contribution he made to our borough.”
Manchester council leader Bev Craig said: “I’m shocked and saddened by the loss of Eammon Boylan – a man who loved and contributed immensely to our city.
“Eamonn was a remarkable servant to Manchester and Greater Manchester over his long career and is held in high esteem by everyone who worked with him.
“After a long history of working in local government, including as Manchester’s deputy chief executive before becoming the inaugural chief executive of the combined authority, he led the transformation of Greater Manchester.
“When we needed someone to step up as the Council’s interim chief executive in 2024/25 while we recruited for the permanent role, Eammon was the obvious choice and I was delighted when accepted the chance to help our city.
Eamonn Boylan
“He leaves an important legacy in the modern, confident Greater Manchester we see today and the gains we’ve made, especially across regeneration and housing. But he also leaves a human legacy, for those colleagues and friends who knew him so well, and like me will sorely miss him.
“Our thoughts are with Maria, his two children, wider family and friends and all who are affected by his loss.”
Tom Stannard, chief executive of Manchester council, said: “I am deeply saddened at the news of Eamonn’s sudden passing. It has been a privilege to work with Eamonn over the years, both in Manchester and across all my previous years in Greater Manchester including as chief executive of Salford City Council.
“He has been a mentor, confidante and adviser to me and many colleagues – always a source of great wisdom, advice and humour in the face of challenges, generous with his time and attention, and someone with an unswerving commitment to improving the whole of Greater Manchester for the benefit of its residents.
“Eamonn was an exemplary public servant and someone who has made a lasting positive impact on the area. He was a wonderful colleague and friend to many, myself included. He will rightly be remembered among the best public servants of Greater Manchester’s recent history. My thoughts, deepest condolences and love are with Maria and his family.”
