The appointment was confirmed last Friday as the new West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) board met for the first time following recent local elections.

Cllr Simkins, who has been part of the WMCA since it began, will support mayor Richard Parker in promoting those priorities and serve as an ambassador for the region.

He was appointed leader of City of Wolverhampton Council in September 2023 and has represented the Bilston area as councillor for more than two decades.

Cllr Simkins said: “It’s a massive honour to be asked to serve as deputy mayor of the West Midlands.

“As someone who grew up in Bilston and has the privilege of leading my home city of Wolverhampton, I am incredibly proud to be able to represent the Black Country and all of the West Midlands region in this role.

“The West Midlands is a place full of ambition, talent and opportunity, and I’m looking forward to working with Mayor Richard Parker to champion everything that makes it such a great place to live, work and visit.

“Anyone who knows me, knows how passionate I am about helping deliver a better future for the people I represent. I can promise everyone who calls the West Midlands home that we will build on our strengths and make sure all our communities benefit from the opportunities ahead.”

Richard Parker said: “Cllr Simkins’ experience and commitment to the community are why I asked him to join me as deputy mayor and support me in tackling the issues that matter most to our residents - creating good jobs, building affordable homes and delivering a transport system that works for everyone.

“Steve is an experienced leader and has been around the Combined Authority for a number of years. Together, we will work with all members of the WMCA Board and our partner local authorities to deliver on these priorities for the people of the West Midlands.”