Local government leader recommended as interim chief executive
Cumbria is taking a major step forward in its devolution journey with the recommendation to appoint John Barradell OBE as Interim Chief Executive of the new Cumbria Combined Authority (CCA).
John brings extensive leadership experience from across local and national government.
He has served as Chief Executive of the City of London Corporation and Brighton & Hove City Council, and has played key roles in national resilience efforts, including leading the Government’s Grenfell Recovery Taskforce and the London Strategic Group during Covid-19.
He is also the current chair of the National Emergencies Trust and a commissioner on the National Preparedness Commission.
A resident of Carlisle, John has a personal connection to Cumbria.
He currently serves as Programme Director for devolution in Cumbria and is committed to helping the county raise its profile nationally.
The Cumbria Combined Authority is a new statutory body that will be led by a directly-elected Mayor starting May 2027.
The Interim Chief Executive will guide the authority as it begins its ambitious devolution journey, which is expected to deliver at least £333 million in new funding to support local priorities across the county.
Cllr Jonathan Brook, Leader of Westmorland and Furness Council and joint leader of the CCA, said:
“John’s appointment would be a pivotal moment for the new Combined Authority. His reputation for calm, strategic leadership and experience in complex public-sector transformation gives us real confidence as we take this important step."
"Devolution gives Cumbria a once-in-a-generation chance to shape its future, and John’s expertise will be invaluable.”
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council and joint leader of the CCA, added:
“John is a leader of exceptional integrity and vision. With devolution unlocking new powers and investment, Cumbria is entering a transformative period."
"His experience in local government leadership, resilience planning, and partnership working makes him perfectly placed to help the region seize this opportunity.”
John Barradell commented:
“I’m honoured to be recommended for this role. Cumbria is my home, and I know its strengths-from clean energy and advanced manufacturing to tourism and strong communities. Devolution is a huge opportunity to put more decisions in local hands, and I’m passionate about helping Cumbria make the most of this moment.”
The Joint Appointments Panel made the recommendation on 11 February, and the Joint Executive Committee will submit the proposal to the first CCA Board meeting on 18 March.
If approved, John will formally take up the strategic role following that meeting.
During its first year, the Combined Authority will be jointly led by the leaders of Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council, until the election of Cumbria’s first Mayor in May 2027.