Director of Economy (Policy and Integration)

The West Midlands is at a pivotal moment. With one of England’s most ambitious devolution settlements, a bold Growth Plan and a strong foundation of innovation and industry, the region is ready to accelerate inclusive, sustainable growth. The Director of Economy (Policy and Integration) will play a pivotal system leadership role in turning this ambition into measurable impact, shaping strategy, driving delivery and leading across organisational and regional boundaries to ensure devolved powers translate into lasting regional prosperity. This is a high-profile, system-shaping role operating at the heart of a complex partnership landscape. As WMCA’s senior economic strategy lead, the postholder will provide visible, collaborative leadership across the organisation and the wider regional ecosystem, aligning Local Authorities, Government Departments, Universities, Investors and Industry behind a shared economic narrative and set of priorities. The Director will ensure regional ambitions are fully aligned with the Modern Industrial Strategy, the Integrated Settlement and the aspirations set out in the English Devolution White Paper, embedding a culture of integration, accountability and delivery. The role carries significant national and regional influence. The Director will represent the West Midlands in Whitehall, shaping policy discussions, influencing national decision-making and securing new powers and investment. Locally, they will convene and align partners across sectors to strengthen high-growth clusters, unlock innovation and investment, and accelerate place-based development, shaping the future of one of the UK’s most dynamic regions.