The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) has announced the appointment of its permanent Executive Directors.
Following the appoint of EMCCA’s first permanent Chief Executive, Amy Harhoff, the senior team has now added three new members to its ranks.
The new Executive Directors are:
Damien, who has been serving as the Interim Deputy Chief Executive at EMCCA, has played a pivotal role in shaping the authority’s strategic direction since October 2023. His leadership has been instrumental in establishing the Combined County Authority and supporting its Chief Executive during a critical phase of development and expansion.
Bringing a wealth of experience from the UK Civil Service, Damien spent over a decade in various policy development and programme delivery roles. Most notably, he contributed to the cross-government initiative to broaden and strengthen devolution across the country, including in the East Midlands. His deep understanding of devolution policy and regional economic growth will be invaluable as EMCCA continues to develop and implement its ambitious strategy for the region.
As Executive Director of Strategy and Inclusive Growth, he will be driving forward a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to economic development, employment, and skills across the East Midlands.
Damien Dacey commented on his appointment: “I have seen this organisation grow and begin to deliver real change for the region already. So I am delighted to have been appointed the permanent Executive Director of Strategy and Inclusive Growth.”
“We have the chance to make the East Midlands one of the best regions in the country, and I am thrilled to continue my journey here. My focus will be on delivering employment, skills, and inclusive growth, ensuring that all communities across the East Midlands benefit from new opportunities. These are vital areas, and I look forward to driving forward this important work with our brilliant teams.”
Edward brings a wealth of experience to this new role, joining EMCCA from Kirklees Council in West Yorkshire, where he has been in his role as Director of Skills and Regeneration for over three years. In this capacity, he oversees planning and development, business and economy, employment and skills, as well as major projects.
Passionate about place-based regeneration and industrial development, Edward also holds the position of independent Governor at Kirklees College. With over 20 years of experience in Local Government, he has built a strong track record in driving growth and development in various regions.
Before his time at Kirklees, Edward held director roles at Sheffield City Council, where he worked as Director of City Growth, leading the economic development agency and as Director of Creative for Sheffield.
As Executive Director of Place at EMCCA, he will oversee key areas including Transport, Net Zero, and Housing. He will play a central role in driving the organisation’s initiatives to transform regional transport opportunities for those who live, work and do business in the region, and help to deliver 1,400 high-quality homes by March 2026.
Speaking about the appointment, Edward said: “I am excited to step into the role of Director of Place for the East Midlands Combined County Authority. This is an incredible opportunity to be part of a young, forward-looking organisation which is already making real changes and showing its impact in the region.
“The East Midlands is a place of unique strengths—the industrial clusters, rich visitor economy and heritage landmarks, paired with prime investment opportunities, makes it a standout region.”
“Though we’re in the early stages, the potential is huge, and I’m committed to helping drive the vision forward. I look forward to working alongside Mayor Claire, Amy, local authorities, businesses, and other partners to overcome challenges, foster innovation, and shape a successful future. I’m thrilled to be a part of this journey, to make a difference to the residents and businesses in the region.”
Richard has extensive and wide ranging financial, commercial and transformation experience. He is a CIPFA qualified accountant whose career spans both public and private sectors.
He joins EMCCA from Southampton City Council, where he is currently interim Director of Finance. His previous roles have included Transformation Director at City of Edinburgh Council, Board Director of a mid-sized technology consultancy, Interim Resources Director at Cornwall Council and Executive Director at Somerset County Council. Prior to these roles, Richard worked in public sector consultancy for KPMG and PwC.
In his new role as Executive Director of Resources, Richard will oversee the finance, HR, OD Learning, procurement and contract management, business operations, digital & technology and audit functions. He will also be pivotal in shaping EMCCA’s financial strategy and strengthening its commercial relationships.
Commenting on his appointment, Richard said: “I am delighted to be joining the East Midlands Combined County Authority at such a critical point in its development. I am very much looking forward to working with the Mayor and Amy, and with the new permanent management team to continue to shape and grow the combined authority. At the same time, to build and lead the very best resources functions and teams we can, to support the organisation to deliver its inclusive growth mission and strategic objectives”
Edward and Richard are replacing current Interim Executive Director of Resources, Amanda Mays and Interim Executive Director of Place, Richard Grice, both of whom have played a vital role in setting up the organisation, their dedication and exceptional leadership has been instrumental in getting EMCCA to this stage, fully prepared for the arrival of the new Executive Directors.
Commenting on the organisations first Permanent Executive Directors, Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “I am delighted to have appointed three permanent Executive Directors to our ranks. Damien, Edward and Richard all bring with them rich experience of public service leadership and all three will play a pivotal role in driving forward this organisation and ensuring that our investments in the region deliver real change for the people of the East Midlands.”
“They have all shown a passion and expertise for their areas and they will support us as we build our vision, grow, and innovate. This will help us to ensure that the East Midlands will be one of the best places to live, work, and learn.”
“I would also like to thank our two current interim Executive Directors, Richard Grice for Place and Amanda Mays for Resources. Your expertise and contribution to our devolution journey has been invaluable. You have laid solid foundations that our new Executive Directors can build upon, and you have established relationships and ways of working that will continue to serve this region well into the future.”
Chief Executive of EMCCA, Amy Harhoff said: “I am pleased to have had the opportunity to carefully build my permanent Executive Director team, and I am delighted to welcome Edward and Richard to EMCCA and looking forward to continuing to work with Damien, as we embark on this exciting next chapter together. The selection process has allowed us to bring together a group of leaders who are not only exceptionally skilled but also share our vision and commitment to making a lasting impact.
“I’m delighted to welcome Edward as the new permanent Executive Director Place. With his exceptional experience, he is perfectly placed to guide EMCCA into its next phase of growth and success across the region. We are excited to have him in the team and I look forward to working together as we continue to drive forward our mission, create new opportunities and make a lasting impact in the region.”
“Damien has been a key senior leader for us, helping to drive major projects forward. This is an exciting time to take on this leadership role. The further devolution of powers and funding to the East Midlands presents huge opportunities to accelerate economic growth and deliver tangible benefits for all our residents. Damien’s leadership will be critical in ensuring we maximise these opportunities and deliver real impact.”
“I’m excited to have Richard join the team, with his strong leadership and commitment to creating a positive work culture, I am confident we will strengthen our operations, build a great workplace environment and support the region’s goals for inclusive growth, job creation and regional collaboration.”
The three appointments are set to be formally confirmed by the EMCCA Board at its next meeting on Monday 10 March 2025.
Published on: 7 March 2025
Categories: News