Managing Director - Rochdale Development Agency

Rochdale has never stood still. From the birthplace of the co-operative movement to the heart of Atom Valley, we’ve always been a borough of pioneers. Now we’re looking for a Managing Director to help write the next chapter. 

About the RDA 

Rochdale has always been a place of pioneers, people who change the course of history. Today, Rochdale Development Agency (RDA) carries that spirit forward, driving regeneration, inward investment and economic growth across the borough. 

Since its creation in 1993, the RDA has earned a national reputation for delivery, innovation and partnership. From Rochdale Riverside and Kingsway Business Park to the Rail Corridor Strategy and Atom Valley, the Agency has attracted hundreds of millions in investment and created thousands of jobs. It is now leading once-in-a-generation opportunities that will define Rochdale’s economic future. 

About the Role 

This is a rare chance to lead one of the UK’s most respected development agencies at a time of real momentum. As Managing Director, you will not just oversee projects, you will shape the future of Rochdale. With over £250 million in regeneration funding already secured, you will be the driving force behind turning investment into lasting change. 

You will lead landmark schemes such as Atom Valley, the Northern Gateway and the Rail Corridor Strategy, projects that will create jobs, deliver new homes and establish Rochdale as a hub for innovation, manufacturing and sustainable growth. But the role is bigger than physical transformation, you will champion the borough, build partnerships with investors, government and universities, support local businesses, and ensure Rochdale is recognised nationally and internationally as a place of ambition. 

Internally, you will inspire a talented team, safeguard the Agency’s finances and governance, and work closely with the Board of Directors and Council’s leadership so that everything the RDA delivers strengthens the borough. This is a role for someone who wants to leave a legacy, demanding vision, energy and resilience, but offering the chance to be at the heart of one of the UK’s most exciting economic stories. 

About You 

We are looking for a leader with vision and drive, able to turn strategy into delivery. You may come from local government, a development agency, the private sector or a partnership environment, but you will bring the credibility and results to lead programmes of scale and complexity. 

Commercially astute yet rooted in public service values, you will be politically aware, diplomatically skilled and experienced in securing funding, attracting investment and delivering regeneration that creates jobs, homes and prosperity. Your leadership style will inspire confidence, nurture talent and foster innovation. 

You will have the communication skills to represent Rochdale internationally and the authenticity to win trust at home. Above all, you will share our belief that growth must be inclusive and sustainable, lifting every part of the borough. 

This is a demanding role, but also a rare chance to make history. If you are motivated by the opportunity to lead transformational change, attract investment on a global scale and leave a legacy as lasting as the pioneers before you, we would be delighted to hear from you.

For further information please visit: www.LeadtheRDA.co.uk

Closing Date: Midnight Wednesday 8th October 2025

To apply:

• Full contact details;
• Names, positions, organisations and contact details for two referees (we will ask your permission before contacting referees);
• Details of your current salary and notice period
• Notification of any dates when you are not available for an interview.

Recruitment Timeline:

• Closing Date: Midnight on Wednesday 8th October
• Longlist Meeting (no candidate involvement): Thursday 16th October
• Preliminary Interviews (virtual): w/c 20th October
• Shortlist Meeting (no candidate involvement): w/c 20th October
• Assessment Day (in person): w/c 10th November