A NEW top boss at West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has been welcomed.
Ed Cox has been named at the authority’s chief executive following a meeting of the Employment Committee by the West Midlands Mayor, Richard Parker, and the leaders of the seven local authorities that make up the WMCA Board.
Ed has led the organisation since June as in an interim capacity, driving delivery of the Mayor’s priorities on jobs, homes, growth and transport.
Speaking after his appointment, Ed said: “It has been a privilege to serve the West Midlands over the past five years, and I’m incredibly excited to continue this by leading the WMCA at such a critical moment for the region.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the Mayor, our councils and partners to deliver real improvements for our people and businesses with the most ambitious development opportunities we’ve seen in decades and a growing range of devolved responsibilities that will build a stronger, more inclusive regional economy.”
During his time as interim chief executive, he has delivered the first Regional Investment Summit, launching the West Midlands Investment Prospectus and securing £1billion in private investment, launched the West Midlands Growth Plan and commissioned the Rosewell Review to strengthen delivery of major infrastructure projects and maximise value from the £2.4 billion City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement.
Birmingham-born, Ed joined the WMCA in May 2020 as director of Public Service Reform.
He later became deputy chief executive, leading strategy, economy and net zero.
Mr Parker said: “Ed has provided strong leadership at an important moment for our region. He has driven delivery, strengthened our partnerships and brought clarity and focus to the organisation.
“We are moving at pace to create jobs, build homes and improve transport. Ed’s appointment gives us stability and momentum as we deliver the Growth Plan and secure more investment for the West Midlands.”
