1. Authentic leadership
Jo Ahmed MBE, practice senior partner at Deloitte in the North West, said: “Authentic, visible leadership. Someone who listens with empathy and acts. Someone who truly understands the power of public and private partnerships and the positive impact those have on a place.
“Someone who knows the value of strong international relationships for business and communities alike. Someone who is human. These are the values that I have seen in our new Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
Jo Ahmed MBE, practice senior partner at Deloitte in the North West
“I have had the pleasure of working alongside him as part of the Greater Manchester business community, primarily in relation to the international agenda for the city region and seen first-hand his ability to energise and enthuse all those he has worked with to drive forward a common goal of inclusive economic growth.
“Clearly the task of running a country is a much greater challenge and undoubtedly there will be many bumps along the road but staying true to his core values as a leader will, I hope, pave the way for greater optimism and enhanced national prosperity for all places across this wonderful country of ours.”
2. Don’t be afraid to evolve
Michael Ingall, chairman and CEO of Allied London, said: “Having met Andy Burnham on a number of occasions and shared a speaking platform with him several times over the more recent years, it has always been both a pleasure and, in hindsight, a privilege to spend time with him.
“As the national debate unfolds, much of the commentary will inevitably be shaped by uncertainty and the fear that often accompanies change. However, political parties should never be afraid to evolve.
Michael Ingall, Allied London
“The Labour party is entitled to change its leader, (after all the Tory party are past masters much to their failures) and the Labour party is equally entitled to change its direction if doing so offers the opportunity to improve people’s lives. There are so many people across the country who stand to benefit from that ambition.
“Having invested in, developed and helped grow Manchester over the past 25 years, I have seen and experienced first-hand the benefits of a stable, collaborative political environment and strong civic leadership. That stability has been an important factor in the city’s (Manchester) transformation and success.
“It is that hope that Andy Burnham can bring those same qualities of stability, confidence, pragmatism and long-term vision to the national stage.
“I wish Andy Burnham every success and look forward to seeing his continued contribution to the future of both the country and the Labour party.”
3. Science and technology is key
John Downes, chairman of Sci-Tech Daresbury, said: “Andy Burnham’s appointment as Prime Minister marks a significant moment for the North and brings devolution and investment firmly into the national conversation.
“For businesses across the North, the focus must now be on turning ambition into action. Ensuring regions have the infrastructure and investment needed to compete on a global stage. Tackling the UK’s long-standing North-South economic divide will require sustained support for the sectors that drive innovation and long-term growth.
“Science and technology must be central to that agenda. The UK’s continued investment in emerging industries, including quantum technologies, alongside the strength of sectors such as life sciences and advanced manufacturing, presents a major opportunity to create high-skilled jobs and build a more balanced economy.”
4. Back entrepreneurs
Keith Griffiths, founder of The Entrepreneur Festival, said: “Devolution should not simply be about transferring powers from Westminster. It should be about recognising the role regional businesses and entrepreneurs play in creating jobs, attracting investment and driving growth.
“Having built a business that generated more than £60m for the local Leeds economy and helped unlock over £2bn in projects and investment, I’ve seen first-hand the economic impact entrepreneurs can have when they’re given the opportunity to succeed.
“Across the UK, talented founders are building ambitious companies, but too many struggle to access capital, scale their businesses or tap into the networks they need to grow.
“A new government has an opportunity to change that by treating entrepreneurs as partners in economic policy rather than simply beneficiaries of it.
“If Andy Burnham wants to raise productivity, create jobs and strengthen regional economies, backing entrepreneurs should be one of his priorities. The UK’s economic success will be built as much in Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham as it will in Westminster. Ignoring that would be a costly mistake.”
5. Employers want direction
Kate Palmer, COO at Peninsula, said: “In his first speech, the new PM pledged to help with cost of living, support young people not in education, employment or training in to work (NEETs), and end rough sleeping.
“Employers will be watching keenly for some direction from Government, as they continue to navigate changes that are coming under the Employment Rights Act 2025.
“Businesses would certainly welcome some help in terms of cost-of-living, energy bills and statutory costs; whether they get some relief remains to be seen.”
6. Stay focused
Alan Price, CEO at BrightHR, said: “Self-described ‘pro-business leader’ Andy Burnham has appointed ex-defence secretary John Healey as Chancellor.
“Although Healey wasn’t on the radar for most commentators, he does have some treasury and trade union experience, and is a respected figure in Northern politics.
“Since Sir Keir Starmer announced his intention to step down, small business owners in the UK have been anticipating the new leader’s stance on taxation, public spending and employment law.
“But business owners have been dealing with legislative changes over the past couple of years, with more to come. My advice is to prepare for what you know. Keep an eye out for announcements but stay focused on running your business and preparing for the reforms you already know about.”
7. Listening politician
Furqan Naeem MBE, Chair of Young Manchester and Manchester Central Foodbank, said: “Over the last 10 years as a Community Organiser, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Andy during his time as Mayor of Greater Manchester.
“Together with communities, faith leaders, campaigners and local organisations, we’ve worked to build the power of everyday people, ensuring that communities have a real voice in shaping the decisions that affect their lives.
“Throughout that journey, I’ve seen Andy’s willingness to listen, engage and work alongside communities to tackle some of our biggest challenges.
“As he begins his new role as Prime Minister, I wish him every success. Leadership at this level comes with immense responsibility, but also the opportunity to bring people together, bridge divides, and create lasting change.
“I hope the values that have shaped Greater Manchester – partnership, inclusion, listening and putting communities first – continue to guide his leadership.”
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