Bev Craig

Mayor of Greater Manchester

Greater Manchester Combined Authority

Speaker Biography

Bev Craig OBE became Mayor of Greater Manchester in 2026.

Originally from Belfast, Bev moved to Manchester in 2003 and was first elected as a Burnage councillor in 2011. She became Leader of Manchester City Council in December 2021 and has led work to build a more inclusive economy, tackle inequalities, deliver new homes and support Manchester’s net zero ambitions.

Before becoming Mayor, Bev served as a Vice Chair of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Deputy Mayor for Economy, Business and Inclusive Growth. She has also held national leadership roles with the Local Government Association and previously chaired Core Cities UK.

In March 2026, she was awarded an OBE for services to local government. Outside public life, Bev enjoys sport, the outdoors, music and culture.

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