In a move that signals both stability and ambition for the future of the region, Ed Cox has been appointed Interim Chief Executive of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).
The announcement, made in the wake of leadership transitions and amid renewed regional focus, places one of the UK's most respected public policy thinkers at the helm of one of the country’s most dynamic regions. For Cox, the appointment is more than a job — it's a call to action.
"It’s a real honour to be invited by the Mayor and local authority leaders to serve as Chief Executive at such a pivotal time,” he said. “We in the West Midlands stand on the cusp of extraordinary opportunity.”
As home to over 2.9 million people, the West Midlands is known not only for its rich industrial past but for its forward-thinking approach to transport, skills, housing, and inclusive economic growth. From the bustling innovation clusters of Birmingham to the growing creative and digital hubs in Coventry and Wolverhampton, the region is increasingly being seen as a model for regional devolution done right.
Ed Cox is no stranger to this narrative. His appointment comes with more than two decades of experience across public policy, local governance, and think tank leadership.
Formerly a senior leader at the Local Government Association (LGA) and IPPR North, Cox has long championed the potential of regions to drive national renewal — particularly those outside London and the South East.
At IPPR North, he made headlines with hard-hitting reports on regional inequality, devolution, and transport investment disparities, bringing to national attention the need for levelling up to be more than political rhetoric. Later, at the LGA and through various advisory roles, he became known for his ability to turn strategy into delivery — a skill the WMCA is keen to capitalise on.
Cox has laid out three immediate priorities: clarity, delivery, and collaboration. "That means driving forward investment in public transport, skills, and housing; taking urgent action on climate change; and deepening partnerships with local authorities, with government and with businesses," he explained.
“Our shared goal is to make the West Midlands the best place to live, work and visit.” The scope of the role is immense.
As Interim Chief Executive, Cox will oversee key strategic portfolios ranging from the continued rollout of the West Midlands Metro extension to the region’s Net Zero ambitions, as well as major skills and employment programmes tailored to meet the demands of a shifting economy. One of his most immediate challenges will be steering the Combined Authority through a period of transition, while ensuring that momentum is not lost on existing infrastructure and social investment plans — including crucial housing projects and the devolution of skills funding.
Those who have worked with Ed Cox describe him as thoughtful, principled, and quietly persuasive — a leader who listens deeply and acts decisively. During his time as Director of Inclusive Growth at the RSA (Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce), he helped launch regional growth frameworks that centred equity, sustainability, and innovation at their core. He was instrumental in the development of inclusive growth units that bridged the gap between economic development and social justice — an ethos that aligns closely with the West Midlands’ own drive to ensure no community is left behind.
Born and raised in the North of England, Cox’s commitment to regional equity is both professional and personal. He has written extensively about the imbalance of power and resources in the UK and has long argued for stronger local leadership backed by flexible, long-term funding — principles that underpin the WMCA’s current strategic agenda.
Cox takes over at a moment when public expectations are high. With ongoing national conversations around transport funding, housing affordability, climate commitments, and economic resilience, the West Midlands has a chance to lead — not just in delivering infrastructure, but in setting a new national tone for regional leadership.
Mayor Richard Parker, who recently took office, welcomed Cox’s appointment: “Ed brings a wealth of experience and a proven commitment to the values we stand for. His steady leadership will ensure we continue to build a stronger, fairer, greener West Midlands.”
As Interim Chief Executive, Cox’s tenure may be limited by title, but the impact he is expected to make — through collaboration, innovation and purpose-driven delivery — will be long-lasting. Whether working to tackle inequalities, drive investment, or help young people into careers that match the skills of the future, Ed Cox steps into this role with the confidence of a region behind him, and the urgency of a future that cannot wait.
By Kunle Aderemi – Editor, The Phoenix Newspaper
