The head of West Yorkshire’s regional governance body is departing after ten years in the role.
Ben Still, who has served as chief executive of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority since 2014, will conclude his tenure at the start of November to assume leadership of Thames Freeport.
During his decade-long tenure, Still was instrumental in brokering devolution and investment agreements, helping to establish the Mayoral Combined Authority structure, and developing an organisation now managing approximately £1.2 billion in annual regional expenditure.
His leadership also encompassed overseeing significant infrastructure developments, including the construction of new bus and rail facilities, increased delivery of affordable homes, and the introduction of an enhanced adult training initiative.
The Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, acknowledged the departing executive’s contributions, noting the transformation of the Combined Authority from its early stages into one of the country’s most prominent mayoral strategic bodies.
She highlighted achievements including thousands of new residential properties, additional railway stations, and progress on the franchised bus network.
The mayor expressed appreciation for the guidance received during her five years in office and wished Still success in his future ventures.
Still also directed negotiations for the introduction of publicly-operated bus services, scheduled to launch next year under the Weaver Network branding, and served as chair of the UK Mayors CEO Network.
In comments regarding his departure, Still stated that after ten years with the organisation, a new professional opportunity had emerged.
He expressed satisfaction at joining Thames Freeport, a collaborative enterprise involving major London ports and regional partners in Essex and Kent, dedicated to stimulating investment and renewal in underprivileged communities along the Thames estuary.
He described West Yorkshire as an excellent place to reside and work, expressing pride in collective accomplishments and gratitude for the chance to collaborate with skilled colleagues and stakeholders.
The chair of Thames Freeport, Ruth Kelly, welcomed the appointment, noting that Still possessed precisely the expertise required as the organisation transitions from planning to implementation.
She emphasised his demonstrated ability to convert strategic growth ambitions into tangible results for communities and regions.
Recruitment for Still’s replacement has commenced, with arrangements for interim leadership to be confirmed.