The Northern Gateway

The Northern Gateway is the largest single employment development in Greater Manchester and a significant site within the Atom Valley Mayoral Development Zone (MDZ) and poised to become the basis of a Mayoral Development Corporation. This transformative initiative aims to drive economic growth, enhance infrastructure, and create sustainable communities in Greater Manchester. The Vision for Northern Gateway is to establish a world-class business community that will drive inclusive growth and economic prosperity for Atom Valley and Greater Manchester by becoming the largest and most accessible employment opportunity in the region. The project includes two key allocations under the Places for Everyone Joint Development Plan: JPA1.1 (Heywood/Pilsworth), a nationally significant proposal for employment-led development, and JPA1.2 (Simister/Bowlee), which will deliver new housing integrated with surrounding communities. Recognised as one of two Investment Zones in Greater Manchester, Northern Gateway focuses on advanced materials and manufacturing, aiming to unlock business opportunities and create high-quality jobs.

About the Project

The Northern Gateway project is a collaborative effort involving Bury Council, Rochdale Borough Council, Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM). Bury and Rochdale Councils aim to improve the local economy, infrastructure, and community services for their residents as a result of the development. GMCA provides strategic oversight, ensuring the project aligns with the broader objectives of Greater Manchester, and TfGM plans and implements transport infrastructure improvements to ensure the site is accessible and well-connected. Together, these councils and authorities work to ensure the Northern Gateway project is delivered successfully, bringing transformative benefits to the region

About Greater Manchester Combined Authority

Greater Manchester Combined Authority was established in 2011, bringing together ten councils and the Mayor and working together with local services, business, communities and other partners to make Greater Manchester a better place for all. We work across a range of areas including work and skills, waste and resources, community resilience, fire and rescue, transport, investment and economy, culture, environment and ageing well. We are a public sector employer of choice in Greater Manchester, who offer exciting opportunities that are at the forefront of public sector innovation and devolution. By working for us you will be directly contributing and making positive a difference to the Greater Manchester region, to the communities, businesses and people that live and work here. We value the diversity of our employees, and aim to recruit a workforce which reflects our diverse communities across Greater Manchester. We welcome and encourage applications from all irrespective of people's age, disability, Trans status and Non-binary identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We have guidance in place to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process, including the consideration of reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Programme Director to lead the proposed Northern Gateway MDC. This pivotal role involves overseeing the planning, implementation, and successful delivery of our ambitious development programmes. The Programme Director will provide strong operational leadership, manage a diverse team, and ensure that all projects align with our strategic objectives. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing the Business Plan, managing the Programme Management Office (PMO), and engaging with stakeholders across Atom Valley, Northern Gateway, and Greater Manchester. The role requires extensive experience in commercial sector input and infrastructure planning, as well as the ability to lead strategic workstreams and provide expert advice. The Programme Director will also be responsible for securing public and private sector investment, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering effective partnerships at local, regional, and national levels.

About the Candidate

The ideal candidate will have a degree in a relevant discipline and considerable experience in the development industry, including projects underpinned by significant infrastructure investments. They should have a proven track record in strategic leadership within a complex environment, with the ability to influence at all levels. Demonstrable experience in developing strategies and business plans, knowledge of public-private partnerships, and a thorough understanding of market changes and forces that influence development are essential. The candidate should possess strong organisational and leadership skills, excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, and outstanding analytical and problem-solving capabilities. A commitment to the values of local democracy and public service, sound judgement in complex situations, and a collaborative working style are also required. The Programme Director should be able to support both strategic and operational needs of the project, responding flexibly to changing circumstances and resources.



For a confidential discussion, please speak with our advisors on:

Marek Dobrowolski,

Partner, Place, Regeneration and Social Housing

07793 529 576

Marek.Dobrowolski@berwickpartners.co.uk

Ruth Hernandez Turner

Principal Researcher

0121 654 5936 

Ruth.HernandezTurner@berwickpartners.co.uk