Ed Cox confirmed as permanent head of WMCA
West Midlands Combined Authority chief executive Ed Cox will be able to drop the ‘interim’ prefix from his job title, after being permanently appointed to the role this afternoon.
Brummie-born Cox was appointed as temporary head of the organisation in June, taking over from Laura Shoaf, who left after a four-year stint to take up a role as chair of the fledgling government railway body, Great British Railways.
He joined WMCA in May 2020 as director of public service reform, later becoming deputy chief executive where he led on strategy, economy and net zero.
His appointment to chief executive was made permanent at a meeting of the WMCA Board today, 13 February.
“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,” said West Midlands Mayor, Richard Parker.
“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.”
Mayor Richard Parker with new permanent chief executive Ed Cox earlier today. Credit: WMCA
In the past year, Cox is credited with launching the region’s first regional investment summit in October, launching the West Midlands Investment Prospectus and securing £1bn in private investment for the region
During his tenure, he has also overseen a fourfold increase in housing delivery, keeping the WMCA on track to meet its 7,000-home target for the current year.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
