Wayne, who has been recognised as one of the top 500 global influencers on environment and sustainability, will join the authority’s executive leadership team and be responsible for overseeing the delivery of key capital projects including housing, regeneration, transport and wider infrastructure. 

His appointment was confirmed by the mayor and the leaders of the region’s seven metropolitan councils at a meeting of the WMCA board on Friday. 

The new role has been created as part of a transformation programme at the WMCA to provide dedicated leadership and accountability for the delivery of the authority’s significant investment portfolio.  

He joins from Nottinghamshire County Council where he was director of economy, environment and assets.

He has more than 20 years’ experience in local government leadership roles and has spent the last decade directing placemaking functions at upper tier and unitary authorities.  

Wayne said: “I’m delighted to be joining the WMCA at such a pivotal moment for the region and excited to get started.  

“In my discussions with the Mayor, it has been clear that the West Midlands has unparalleled opportunities for growth that can transform communities, deliver new homes and create high-quality jobs. 

“I’m looking forward to working closely with all seven constituent authorities, our partners and local communities to realise the full potential of the region and ensure that growth delivers lasting benefits for everyone who lives and works here.” 

Ed Cox, WMCA chief executive, said: “Wayne has an unparallelled track record of delivering large scale place shaping infrastructure.  

“In Nottinghamshire his work led to thousands of new homes alongside transport infrastructure, employment land and education facilities.  

“His work has transformed communities which is why he will be such an asset for us as we help the Mayor change local lives for the better by delivering economic growth, affordable new homes, better transport and good quality jobs.” 

Previous projects led by Wayne have earned him several accolades including the National Lottery Awards Environment Category Winner and Local Authority of the Year.  

He has also served as a board director on a number of £100m plus turnover businesses, mostly in the regeneration and construction sector.