Chair

A New Chair: The Next Stop on Our Journey to Success

Since our establishment in 2015, Midlands Connect has been at the heart of accelerating transport infrastructure programmes that are transforming the physical and economic heartland of Great Britain. From the Welsh border to the Lincolnshire coast, we bring together local transport authorities, business, National Highways, HS2, Network Rail, Government and other agencies to secure investment in strategic priorities that deliver a modern, green, efficient, integrated and effective transport network.

Our new Chair will lead the Board, support colleagues and engage with partners across the region to bring strategic direction and leadership that delivers our vision. We are embarking upon the next phase of our journey, and this appointment is key to providing a single voice that reflects the priorities of our region. You will be at the forefront of transforming strategic connectivity and wider infrastructure across the Midlands - bringing governance oversight to existing work programmes, helping to secure investment that enables the region to continue to develop a pipeline of new initiatives to support sustainable economic growth. As the Sub-National Transport Body of the Midlands, we face many exciting opportunities and challenges, and it is our role to ensure that we prioritise projects with the greatest impact that transform connectivity across the Midlands and to key international gateways - enabling the Midlands to work more effectively together increasing economic productivity, social inclusion and meet net zero commitments.

Our new Chair will be independent and non-political, with an understanding of the region, who is able to work across a broad range of stakeholders with the integrity to represent the region nationally and internationally. Whilst specific knowledge of transport is not required, you will bring confidence and presence in conversations with Government, both local and national, with business and investors. This is a unique opportunity to significantly influence the future prosperity of the Midlands and wider UK.

Our new Chair will be appointed for a three-year term, commencing in April 2025, with the option to renew for a further three-years with agreement of the Board. The expected time commitment will vary but it is estimated to be around 1-2 days per month. This is made up of preparation and participation in Strategic Board meetings (3 times per year), attendance at meetings with Ministers, partner and key external stakeholders, regular contact with the CEO and attendance at key events such as the Midlands Connect annual conference. Whilst the post is unremunerated, full expenses will be paid.

If you feel that you have the experience and skills to be our next Chair, please contact our retained consultants, GatenbySanderson- Philip Emms () or Tim Hills (). Or visit click on Apply below where you can also download the recruitment pack.