The chief executive of Rochdale Council has resigned following his suspension over allegations of inappropriate behaviour during his previous role at Manchester City Council. James Binks, who only took up the top position at Rochdale in April 2025 after serving as assistant chief executive in Manchester, stepped down on January 12, 2026.
The council confirmed Mr Binks left under standard terms and conditions, receiving no payout or severance package. The controversy stems from an internal disciplinary investigation conducted by Manchester City Council into events from November 2024.
In a letter to councillors on December 1, council leader Neil Emmott cited “troubling recent media coverage” and the need to uphold the organisation’s reputation.
He emphasised: “We expect the highest standards of behaviour from all members of our staff and the chief executive of any council has the particular responsibility to set an example to everybody in their organisations.”
Mr Binks has apologised for his conduct on the night but strongly denied 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 became aware of the allegations, and broader concerns about workplace conduct in local government. MPs, including Rochdale’s Paul Waugh, welcomed the initial suspension as a swift response to serious claims.