The West of England Combined Authority (WECA) has recruited University of Bath director of research and innovation services Dr Jon Hunt as one of four directors in its senior leadership team.
Dr Hunt, who joins as director of business & skills, was instrumental in developing the university’s Institute for Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems (IAAPS), the global centre of excellence for transformational research and innovation in low-emission vehicles to be built on the Bristol & Bath Science Park. He also has a strong background in economic development and business transformation.
WECA is creating four director jobs in the areas of business & skills, infrastructure, investment & corporate services and legal services, which is a part-time role. 
Also joining is North Somerset Council’s director of development and environment David Carter is its new director of infrastructure. The remaining two posts have not yet been filled.
Dr Hunt said: “I have spent the last few years building partnerships to deliver investment in cutting-edge research and technology. In my new role I will build on this experience and work with WECA to help improve skills and secure better job opportunities for residents, as well as supporting businesses to locate and grow in the West of England.”
David Carter has been director of development and environment at North Somerset since 2016. He has extensive experience in the public and private sector, with a strong engineering background and a wealth of senior-level experience in planning, transport and housing.
He said: “I’ve worked very closely with the combined authority and Local Enterprise Partnership in my role at North Somerset, and I’m looking forward to joining the team and helping drive forward some of those big things that will help improve people’s lives – more homes, better transport and improved digital connections.”
West of England Combined Authority chief executive Patricia Greer added: “I’m delighted that Jon and David are joining our senior leadership team. They bring enthusiasm, vast experience and knowledge and I look forward to working with them to deliver our ambitious plans for the region.”
WECA, which is based in offices at Temple Quay, Bristol, was formed last year following a devolution deal to transfer nearly £1bn in funding over 30 years from central government to the West of England to boost skills, improve infrastructure and tackle the housing crisis.
The authority is made up of the three local authorities – Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol City and South Gloucestershire – and is led by an elected ‘metro mayor’. It employs 57 staff.
