Sir Howard Bernstein joined the City Council as Junior Clerk, rising to become the Council’s Chief Executive in 1998.

Sir Howard is known for his business acumen; for forging partnerships with the City’s key players; and for successfully attracting millions of pounds into the City.  He played a key role in the regeneration of Hulme, the first area in the UK to attract City Challenge status, and subsequent area regeneration initiatives, most recently in East Manchester; in major projects including The Bridgewater Hall, the Velodrome and the Arena, and the new International Convention Centre; the City of Manchester Stadium and SportCity Complex and City Art Gallery.

Sir Howard was instrumental in securing Manchester as Host City for the XVII Commonwealth Games in 2002, which was the largest multi-sport event ever hosted by the UK and the most successful Games ever.

Regular business surveys of the top 100 financial figures in the NW consistently rate him one of the most influential.  Recognition of Sir Howard's contribution to Manchester includes being awarded an honorary degree by UMIST in 2003, Manchester University in 2004, Manchester Metropolitan University in 2005 and Mancunian of the Year also in 2003.  Sir Howard was knighted for his services to Manchester in the New Year’s Honours 2003.  The Financial Times group FDI named Sir Howard as their European personality of the year 2004.  Sir Howard was recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Regeneration and Renewal Awards in September 2008.