West Yorkshire chief executive Ben Still set to depart

Ben Still, who has led the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) for 10 years, will leave his post at the beginning of November to take over the reins at Thames Freeport.

During his time at WYCA, Mr Still played a key role in securing devolution and funding deals, establishing the Mayoral Combined Authority, and building an organisation now responsible for £1.2 billion of annual investment in the region.

He also oversaw major infrastructure projects, including new bus and railway stations, a rise in affordable housing delivery, and the launch of an improved adult skills programme.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: "Ben has led the Combined Authority expertly over the last decade, overseeing its transformation from its infancy, to one of the leading established Mayoral Strategic Authorities in the country.

"Under Ben’s leadership, the Combined Authority has worked with partners to deliver thousands of new homes, new railway stations, and put us on track to deliver our new franchised Weaver Network buses.

"I am grateful for Ben’s support and guidance in my five years as Mayor, helping me navigate tricky issues and negotiations with intellect and good sense.

"His dedication and commitment as a public servant are second to none, and I wish him well in his future endeavours."

Mr Still also led negotiations for the rollout of publicly-run bus services, set to begin next year under the Weaver Network, and chaired the UK Mayors CEO Network.

Reflecting on his time at WYCA, he said: "After a decade working for the Combined Authority, I’ve been searching for a fresh challenge and am really pleased to be joining Thames Freeport, a public-private partnership, working with the key London ports, local and regional authorities in Essex and London to drive economic growth and regeneration in some of the most deprived areas of the Thames estuary.

"West Yorkshire is a truly fantastic place to live, work and raise a family.

"I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together and am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with so many talented colleagues and partners."

Ruth Kelly, chair of Thames Freeport, said: "Ben brings exactly the blend of experience Thames Freeport needs as we move from planning into large-scale delivery.

"He has a strong track record of turning ambitious growth strategies into real outcomes for people and places."

The search for Mr Still’s successor is underway, with an interim chief executive to be appointed in the meantime.