Caroline Simpson

Caroline Simpson has been selected by Andy Burnham to serve as his deputy chief of staff, a key role in his anticipated "No 10 North" initiative. Simpson, the current chief executive of the Greater Manchester combined authority, will be based in Manchester. Her responsibilities will include overseeing the devolution of power and resources across the United Kingdom, a central promise of Burnham's platform. This appointment comes as Burnham is widely expected to succeed Keir Starmer as prime minister. Simpson's close working relationship with Burnham during his tenure as mayor of Greater Manchester makes her a significant figure in this new governmental structure. The "No 10 North" base itself is under construction in Ancoats, on the outskirts of Manchester, with completion projected for 2028. Simpson's role is therefore crucial in laying the groundwork for this new northern centre of government and implementing Burnham's vision for decentralized power.