The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has confirmed Ed Cox as its chief executive after his successful tenure in an interim capacity saw a boost to regional transport and infrastructure plans.
Mr Cox has led the organisation since June 2025. During his time as interim chief executive, he commissioned the Rosewell Review to strengthen delivery of major infrastructure projects and maximise value from the £2.4bn City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement.
Mr Cox also delivered the first Regional Investment Summit, launching the West Midlands Investment Prospectus and securing £1bn in private investment, and oversaw the West Midlands Growth Plan, setting out how the regional economy will grow by £17bn.
His appointment was confirmed on 13 February by the Mayor and the leaders of the seven local authorities that make up the WMCA Board.
Mayor Richard Parker said: '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.'
Birmingham-born Mr Cox joined the WMCA in May 2020 as director of public service reform. He later became deputy chief executive, leading strategy, economy and net zero, before being appointed interim chief executive in June 2025.
Mr Cox said: '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.
'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.'
Photo: Mayor Richard Parker (left) with Ed Cox after his confirmation today as WMCA Chief Executive.
