New Chief Executive for East Midlands Combined County Authority
East Midlands Combined County Authority is the only mayoral combined authority in the country with two women in its most senior roles.
Amy Harhoff has been appointed as the team’s first permanent chief executive, distinguishing the authority in the country as this year a female mayor — Claire Ward — was elected.
Amy has joined the team, from Durham County Council, where she has been Corporate Director for regeneration, economy and growth for the past four years.
She has also worked at senior level at Sandwell Council in the West Midlands, South Yorkshire Combined Authority and Transport for Greater Manchester.
In her new role, she will be responsible for leading the organisation’s work on regional transport, housing, economic development, Net Zero, jobs and skills priorities.
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.”
The East Midlands mayor said to be delighted to welcome Amy to the team after a ‘very rigorous recruitment process’.
Claire Ward added: “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.”
She also thanked their current interim chief executive, Mark Rogers, for his part in the devolution journey and creation of the combined county authority and setting ‘strong foundations for Amy to build on’.
The appointment will be formally approved by the East Midlands Combined County Authority board at its next meeting on November 4.
Amy is expected to take up her appointment in the New Year.