Following the recent decision to create a mayoral combined authority in Essex, Tom Walker has been appointed as interim chief executive officer.
His appointment is said to be a key step in the plans to simplify the county’s local government structure.
The decision to appoint Mr Walker was made after a joint recruitment process by Essex County Council, Southend Council and Thurrock Council.
Mr Walker, who is currently the executive director for policy, economy, investment and public health at Essex County Council, will lead the next stage in establishing the new authority.
He brings extensive experience from both Essex and national government, as well as expertise in economic growth, regeneration, housing, planning and environment policy.
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This appointment marks a significant milestone in Greater Essex’s devolution journey.
It is a strategic body that will drive economic growth across a whole economic area using powers and funding devolved from central government.
A multi-million-pound investment fund is expected to be confirmed shortly as the necessary legislation is laid in Parliament.
On his appointment, Mr Walker said: “Devolution is a huge opportunity for Greater Essex.
“Devolution gives us more of the tools to shape our own future, drive business and housing growth, strengthen our economy and invest in the skills that will power prosperity for generations to come.”
“I look forward to working with partners across Greater Essex over the coming months to create a new organisation working for the whole system and ensuring the new mayor of Greater Essex and the combined county authority they lead delivers real impact from day one.”
The new combined authority will be led by a directly elected mayor from May 2026.
Essex County Council, Southend Council and Thurrock Council are currently working on the operating model, constitution and governance framework to ensure the organisation is ready to deliver from the outset.
The combined authority will formally come into existence in spring 2026, with elections for the mayor of Greater Essex held on May 7, 2026.
