Regional business leader appointed to key devolution role
A top regional lawyer has been appointed to the shadow board steering the creation of the new East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), ahead of the very first election for East Midlands Mayor in May.
David Williams, Chairman of Geldards, one of the UK’s leading law firms, will take on the role of interim business representative on the EMCCA shadow board, joining local politicians from the four key councils involved in the East Midlands devolution deal.
David said: “I’ve lived and worked in the East Midlands for over thirty years and I’m committed to doing what I can to raise the profile and economic prosperity of the region, developing the many successful partnerships between the private, public and third sectors. I’m looking forward to working with political leaders and other partners to maximise the opportunities that devolution will bring to the region.”
Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “David will be a tremendous asset to the shadow board and his appointment is another important step forward as we press ahead towards the creation of the new East Midlands Combined County Authority. David brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role and we look forward to working with him during this key period for East Midlands devolution.”
Alongside his role as Chairman of Geldards, a top 100 law company with more than 300 employees, David holds a number of non-executive and trustee positions, including Chairman of EMB Group Limited, Deputy Chair of D2N2 LEP, Board member at Nottingham Trent University and a non-executive Director of East Midlands Chamber of Commerce.
EMCCA is set to bring in around £4 billion of funding for the region, alongside devolved powers for transport, skills and adult education, housing, the environment and economic development.
Businesses in Chesterfield are being invited to find out more about the East Midlands Combined County Authority at the upcoming Celebrate Chesterfield Event.
Taking place on 20th March 2024, the conference will host the candidates for the upcoming EMCCA mayoral election. Book your place here.
