First permanent chief executive of the East Midlands Combined County Authority has officially taken up up position, joining from Durham County Council

The first permanent chief executive of the East Midlands Combined County Authority has officially taken up up position.

Amy Harhoff joins the authority — which was established in May of last year — from her role as corporate director for regeneration, economy, and growth at Durham County Council, where she led major initiatives for the past four years.

Her experience in leadership includes senior roles at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, South Yorkshire Combined Authority, and Transport for Greater Manchester.

Ms Harhoff’s salary will be £185,000 — as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service — nearly double the £93,000 salary of East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward.

As chief executive, she will oversee the authority’s priority work on regional transport, housing, inclusive growth, climate resilience, and jobs and skills, helping to set strong foundation.

The appointment also establishes a significant moment as the only Mayoral Combined Authority in the country with two women in its most senior leadership positions.

Reflecting on her appointment, Ms Harhoff said: “Being selected by the region to be the first permanent chief executive for one of the largest and most ambitious Combined Authorities, is an honour, a privilege, and a great responsibility.

“Our region is exceptional, there are few places nationally that have our strength of clusters aligned to the UK Industrial strategy and investment sites to boot, a thriving visitor economy underpinned by home of sport, world heritage sites, creative sectors, with pioneering global companies and major universities, alongside diverse and exceptional places.

“The region has the assets our role now is to harness them, connect opportunities via a compelling transport offer, upskill and retain talent, deliver a demonstrable identity that needs no explanation and be the first region to deliver a truly inclusive system.

“I am lucky enough to have a key role in taking this forward with Mayor Claire and with authentic and deep partnership working, we, our local authorities, business and anchor institutions will make a step change.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “I’m delighted to welcome Amy as our new chief executive.

“Her experience, vision and passion for making a positive impact will be invaluable as we work together to deliver real change for the East Midlands.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with Amy to drive forward our shared priorities and ensure the region is the best place to live, work and learn.”