East Midlands Combined County Authority has confirmed the appointment of its first permanent Chief Executive.
Amy Harhoff will join the combined authority from Durham County Council, where she has spent four years as the Corporate Director for Regeneration, Economy and Growth. Previous to this, she also held senior roles at a number of authorities, including Sandwell Council, South Yorkshire Combined Authority, and Transport for Greater Manchester.
Commenting on her appointment, Amy said:
“I’m delighted to be joining EMCCA at such an important time for the East Midlands – this is a once in a generation opportunity to deliver real change across the region.
“The potential is unrivalled – The East Midlands is an exceptional place, with international investment clusters, visitor and heritage destinations and talent.
“We are a new model nationally, trailblazing the way as the East Midlands has so many times before and we are determined to deliver outcomes for our region. I’m delighted to work with Mayor Claire and really looking forward to working in partnership with colleagues in local authorities, our businesses and many amazing enterprises to succeed in the challenge.”
As she takes on the role of Chief Executive, Amy will be responsible for leading the East Midlands Combined Authority’s work in a number of areas, such as:
- Regional transport
- Housing
- Economic development
- Net zero
- Jobs
- Skills
East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward also said:
“I’m very pleased to welcome Amy as our first permanent Chief Executive after a very rigorous recruitment process aimed at making sure we found the best person for the job.
“Amy’s experience, knowledge and passion for supporting strong, proud, and sustainable places makes her an ideal Chief Executive for EMCCA.
“This is a vital role for our region, and she will play a key part in working with me and partners across the East Midlands as we make it the best place to live, work and learn.
“I’d also like to thank our current interim Chief Executive, Mark Rogers, who has played such an important part in our devolution journey and the creation of EMCCA. He has put in place strong foundations for Amy to build on.”
The combined authority’s board is set to approve Amy’s appointment when it meets next week, and she is expected to enter the role in the new year. When she does so, the East Midlands Combined County Authority will become the first in the country to have two women in its most senior roles.
Image credit: East Midlands Combined Authority