New Leader and Cabinet for Sunderland City Council

The Reform UK councillor who represents the Redhouse ward was elected to the council at the 'all-out' election on Thursday 7 May.

He was confirmed as Leader of Sunderland City Council at the full meeting of the City Council on Wednesday 20 May.

Cllr Eynon (30) was born in Sunderland and studied at the University of Sunderland. He lives in the city and works as a financial adviser. His hobbies and interests include local history and sports.

He will be assisted by his Deputy Leader Councillor Daniel Cowie, a former retail worker and a carer for a disabled parent, who represents the Grangetown ward.

Speaking about his appointment, Councillor Eynon, said: "It's a great honour and privilege to have been elected and now to be Leader of the City Council.

"I take this responsibility very seriously and look forward to working with communities, councillors and all our city's public and private sector partners on delivering and providing the best services possible within the resources that we have available.

"At a time when councils continue to face significant challenges, we remain committed to transparency, efficiency and long-term sustainability. Listening to our communities and working constructively together, the council will continue to look at local needs and making a meaningful difference."

The meeting also saw Cllr Eynon unveil his new Cabinet and their Portfolio responsibilities:

• Corporate Services and Local Government Efficiency - Cllr Andrew Ramsey, deputised by Cllr Sandra Hobson-Tate
• Business, Housing and Regeneration - Cllr James Jackson, deputised by Cllr Heather Finlay
• Veterans, Communities and Poverty - Cllr Paul Donaghy, deputised by Cllr Donna Thomas
• Culture, Tourism and Heritage - Cllr Ciera Hudspith, deputised by Cllr Helen Greener
• Environment, Transport and Enforcement - Cllr Bill Blackett, deputised by Cllr Marie McCarty
• Children's Services, Education and Social Mobility - Cllr Carol Giles, deputised by Cllr Elouise Redmayne
• Health, Wellbeing and Adult Services - Cllr Jonathon Emerson, deputised by Cllr Carole Allcroft.

Alongside chairing the executive decision-making cabinet, other duties include Cllr Eynon representing Sunderland on the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority Cabinet, and decisions on the Sunderland AFC Foundation Partnership Board.