Widely viewed as one of the most influential civil servants of his generation, the former Greater Manchester Combined Authority chief executive has died.
GMCA announced this afternoon that Eamonn Boylan, who was most recently interim chief executive at Homes England, has died aged 66 leaving behind a wife and two sons.
A statement from the GMCA praised Boylan for leading Greater Manchester through the ‘defining years’ of English devolution from 2017 to 2024.
He stepped down as chief executive of the combined authority in 2024 and was succeeded by Caroline Simpson.
He was drafted in to replace Joanne Roney as Manchester City Council chief executive in the short-term the same year, before joining Homes England. In all, Boylan worked as a public servant for more than 40 years.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy 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.
“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.”
