Julie Murphy on the line up as interim chief executive at Rochdale Council

Wednesday, 17 December 2025 12:47

By David Murphy

Documents seen by Roch Valley Radio confirm that Rochdale Council will be asked to approve Julie Murphy’s appointment as interim chief executive, following the suspension of James Binks.

A proposal to install Julie Murphy as interim chief executive of Rochdale Borough Council is set to go before councillors for formal ratification, according to documents seen by Roch Valley Radio.

Julie Murphy, who currently serves as Director of Corporate Services and is the council’s statutory Section 151 Officer, is being put forward to take temporary charge following the full paid suspension of chief executive James Binks following upheld misconduct whilst at Manchester City Council.

The council has not disclosed any details surrounding Mr Binks’ suspension, apart from his suspension was enacted on 1st December with full pay following the councils suspension process.

Julie has served with Rochdale Council since November 2001 and has held multiple senior posts during that time, including Chief Finance Officer, Deputy Chief Finance Officer, and Head of Finance. She became Director of Corporate Services in 2022 and has been involved in all major financial and organisational decisions.

Her proposed appointment would require a formal vote at the next full council meeting. If approved, she will step into the borough’s most senior officer role during a period of significant public sector pressure.

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