Rochdale chief executive resigns amid inappropriate behaviour probe | UK | News

The chief executive of Rochdale Council has resigned following his suspension amid allegations of inappropriate behavior during his previous role at Manchester City Council. James Binks, who only rose to the top at Rochdale in April 2025 after serving as assistant managing director at Manchester, resigned on 12 January 2026.

The council confirmed Mr Binks left on standard terms and conditions and did not receive any compensation or severance package. The controversy stems from an internal disciplinary investigation by Manchester City Council into events in November 2024.

In a letter to councilors on December 1, council leader Neil Emmott referred to “recent worrying media coverage” and the need to protect the organisation’s reputation.

He emphasized: “We expect the highest standards of behavior from all members of our staff and the head of any council has a particular responsibility to set an example for everyone in their organisation.”

Mr Binks apologized for his behavior on the night but strongly denied there was any sexual element to his actions. Following the resignation, corporate services director Julie Murphy was appointed interim chief executive and will remain in the role while the council recruits a permanent successor.

The case has sparked criticism over delays in action, questions about when senior figures were made aware of the allegations and wider concerns about workplace behavior in local government. MPs, including Rochdale’s Paul Waugh, welcomed the initial suspension as a swift response to serious allegations.