Amy Harhoff becomes first permanent Chief Executive of East Midlands Combined County Authority

The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) is proud to announce Amy Harhoff as its first permanent Chief Executive.

Amy joins EMCCA 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 extensive leadership experience also includes senior roles at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, South Yorkshire Combined Authority, and Transport for Greater Manchester.  

As Chief Executive, Amy will oversee our work on regional transport, housing, inclusive growth, climate resilience, and jobs and skills: priorities that are vital to delivering positive outcomes for our region. Amy’s leadership will help us build on our strong foundations and drive forward our shared vision for the East Midlands. Her appointment also establishes a significant moment for EMCCA as the only Mayoral Combined Authority in the country with two women in its most senior leadership positions.  

Reflecting on her appointment, Amy 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.” 

The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) is led by Mayor Claire Ward and covers the four local authority areas of Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Nottingham. Its priorities include transport, housing, the visitor economy, economic growth, skills and adult education and net zero.