Combined authority's CEO steps down from role

The chief executive of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is stepping down after four years in the role.

Laura Shoaf will remain in the role until 17 June and will continue as chair of Shadow Great British Railways, which was set up last year by the government under its plans to bring the UK's railways back into public ownership.

Ms Shoaf said she was "sad" to be leaving the organisation she has been with since its inception, but was confident she was leaving it in good hands.

The WMCA said Ed Cox, deputy chief executive, will step up as interim chief while a recruitment process gets under way for a permanent replacement.

"I have lived and worked in the West Midlands for over 20 years, and I am proud that I have been able to make a real difference for our residents," Ms Shoaf said.

"I will always champion our wonderful region and while I am sad to be leaving the combined authority, I know I am leaving it with people who care ionately about the West Midlands and will continue to see it go from strength to strength."

West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker said Ms Shoaf had done an "exemplary job for the region" during her time in the job.

In 2022, she was honoured with a CBE for services to economic regeneration in the West Midlands.

"I want to thank Laura for her decades of service to the West Midlands," the mayor said.

"I especially want to recognise the work she has done in my first year to help me embed and deliver my priorities.

"I want to wish her every success in the future, especially continuing in her role as Chair of Shadow Great British Railways."

This news has been gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service

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