New interim chief exec to take over at West Yorkshire Combined Authority
An experienced local government and regeneration figure is set to become interim chief executive officer at the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Mike Palin will start his role at Wellington House on November 2, after a handover with outgoing chief executive, Ben Still.
Mr Palin was previously executive director of markets, partners and places at Homes England, where he led on work with Mayors and Combined Authorities, and the £1bn brownfield infrastructure and land fund.
He was also previously chief executive of St Helens Council when the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority was formed. As chief executive he led a joint-working approach that integrated health and social care, as well as implementing an economic growth strategy.
Mr Palin, said: “I’m delighted to take on this role at such an exciting time for devolution in West Yorkshire and the Country as a whole."
Mr Palin is expected to be in post for six months, and the recruitment process for the Combined Authority’s permanent chief executive will begin in the coming weeks.
The appointment, subject to approval at the Combined Authority meeting on October 29, follows a competitive process run by the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives (SOLACE).
West Yorkshire Mayor, Tracy Brabin, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mike to the Combined Authority during what is an exciting time for devolution. I would like to repeat my warm gratitude to our outgoing chief executive Ben whose support throughout my time as mayor has been invaluable.”