The East Midlands Combined County Authority is set to appoint its first permanent chief executive.
Amy Harhoff will join EMCCA from Durham County Council, where she has been corporate director for regeneration, economy and growth for the past four years.
She has also worked at senior level at Sandwell Council in the West Midlands, South Yorkshire Combined Authority and Transport for Greater Manchester.
Harhoff will be responsible for leading the organisation’s work on regional transport, housing, economic development, net zero, jobs and skills priorities.
According to the EMCCA, it will be the only Mayoral combined authority in the country with two women in its most senior roles.
Claire Ward was elected Mayor of the East Midlands in May earlier this year and has responsibility for housing, land, net-zero, transport and economic development.
Ward said: "Amy’s experience, knowledge and passion for supporting strong, proud, and sustainable places makes her an ideal chief executive for EMCCA.
"This is a vital role for our region and she will play a key part in working with me and partners across the East Midlands as we make it the best place to live, work and learn."
Harhoff is expected to take up her appointment in the new year and replaces interim chief executive, Mark Rogers.
In November 2022, a devolution deal was agreed by four upper-tier councils Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council. The combined authority was formally established this February.