Director of strategy appointed at West Midlands Combined Authority

Latest arrival will help develop regional devolution.

Devolution expert Julia Goldsworthy is to join the West Midlands Combined Authority as director of strategy.

The latest of Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street’s permanent top-tier appointments, she will leave her role as senior adviser with professional services firm PwC to take up the post in September.

Julia was previously a special adviser at HM Treasury during the coalition government, where she focused on public spending and public service reform. She has spent the last two years working at PwC leading their market approach to devolution in England. She will be a key member of the executive team being assembled by the Mayor and led by incoming WMCA chief executive Deborah Cadman.

Julia said: “Devolution on the ambitious scale we are seeking will have far-reaching implications for the region’s public sector, businesses and individuals. There are exciting opportunities ahead for the West Midlands, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to play a part in ensuring we make the most of them.”

Deborah Cadman said she was delighted with the appointment, adding: “I am very much looking forward to working with Julia. She brings an invaluable skill set to this role, with top level experience of government and work in both the private and public sectors. Her expertise will help us understand the full potential of devolution for the benefit of the West Midlands.”

The WMCA is also currently recruiting a strategic director of housing & regeneration and a director of skills & productivity.