Rebecca Maddison is a senior public sector lawyer with a distinguished career in commercial, regeneration and infrastructure law, advising at the forefront of some of Greater Manchester’s most ambitious and high profile place shaping programmes.

Her career in local government began in child protection social work, an experience that continues to influence her professional outlook. It embedded a strong belief that public sector commercial activity must ultimately serve people and communities, not simply physical development. This perspective has consistently shaped her legal advice and leadership approach.

In 2005, Rebecca transitioned into law, developing specialist expertise in complex public sector programmes. In her early legal career, she supported major initiatives including the Building Schools for the Future programme, utilisation of European Regional Development Fund money to create funds, and the large scale transfer of council housing to newly established Registered Providers. This work provided a strong foundation in governance, partnership working and the delivery of long term public value.

Rebecca currently advises Manchester City Council alongside Salford City Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. She has acted as legal lead on a number of landmark regeneration schemes, including: Wythenshawe Civic Regeneration, Victoria North, Aviva Studios, Salford Crescent, and the Manchester Town Hall restoration.

These projects are nationally significant, combining complex commercial delivery with lasting economic, social and cultural impact for Manchester and the wider city region.

Alongside major regeneration schemes, Rebecca has played a pivotal role in longer term programmes focused on governance, devolution and inclusive growth. This includes advising on the devolution of powers to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, the creation of the Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation, the establishment of the Housing Investment Fund, and supporting the creation of Rail North and, subsequently, Transport for the North. Collectively, this work reflects a sustained commitment to building resilient institutions capable of supporting long term prosperity.

Leadership and people development are central to Rebecca’s work. She leads a highly skilled team of lawyers whose expertise, professionalism and commitment to public service are critical to delivering strong outcomes across Greater Manchester. Creating an environment in which people feel supported, valued and able to develop is a core element of her leadership philosophy.

To further embed access, inclusion and opportunity within the profession, Rebecca established the Greater Manchester Legal Academy in partnership with the GMCA, private practice, and academia. This innovative collaboration promotes inclusive pathways into public sector law, strengthens regional legal capability and supports the development of future legal leaders.

At the heart of Rebecca’s career is a commitment to public service, fairness and lasting impact. Whether shaping major regeneration programmes, strengthening governance frameworks or widening access to the profession, she is driven by collaboration, inclusivity and the long term success of Manchester and the wider Greater Manchester region.