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Rochdale Council’s chief executive, James Binks, has been suspended following allegations of inappropriate behaviour linked to his previous role at Manchester City Council. Binks, who took up the chief executive position earlier this year after serving as assistant chief executive in Manchester, is currently the subject of an internal investigation being conducted by his former employer.
Council leader Neil Emmott informed elected members in a letter on December 1, explaining that recent media reports highlighted concerns related to incidents that allegedly occurred during Binks’ employment in Manchester. Emmott said he decided to suspend Binks to protect the council’s reputation and reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the organisation’s values and standards of conduct.
He stressed that all council staff are expected to demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism, and that a chief executive has a particular responsibility to set the tone for the entire organisation.
It is understood that Binks has apologised for his actions on the night concerned, while firmly denying that any aspect of the allegations was sexual in nature.
As chief executive, Binks oversees the council’s daily operations, staff management, and coordination with councillors and partner organisations. He succeeded Steve Rumbelow, who retired in late 2024 after a decade in the role.
Rochdale MP Paul Waugh welcomed the suspension, saying the council acted appropriately and swiftly in handling the allegations.
Heywood and Middleton North MP Elsie Blundell also supported the decision but called for more transparency about when the council first became aware of the concerns, emphasizing the importance of maintaining trust and ensuring the safety of women and girls.
