Tees Valley Combined Authority names new monitoring officer

The combined authority said the appointment followed a robust and extensive recruitment process involving a range of internal and external partners and represented a key milestone in strengthening its permanent senior leadership team.

It added: “This appointment supports delivery of TVCA’s Organisational Improvement Plan, which includes establishing a stable, long-term senior leadership structure to underpin effective decision-making, accountability and delivery for the residents and businesses of Tees Valley.”

Perriman has been Service Director Law, Democratic Services and MO at Barnsley Council since December 2024 and is a former Head of Legal Services at Middlesbrough Council.

Before moving into local government, Perriman taught law at university and worked in private practice, “giving him a broad perspective across legal education, professional practice and public service”, TVCA said.

He was also named joint winner of the Legal Professional of the Year in this year's LLG Awards.

The appointment was formally approved by the Tees Valley Mayor and Cabinet on Friday (June 26).

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “This is an important appointment for the Combined Authority as we continue to strengthen our organisation and deliver on our improvement plan.

“The Monitoring Officer plays a vital role in ensuring we operate transparently, effectively and within the law, and Andrew brings exactly the right experience and leadership to support that work. I’m pleased to welcome him to the team and look forward to working with him as we continue delivering for local people and businesses.”

Andrew Perriman said: “I am delighted to be returning to Teesside to take up this role. It is an exciting time at the moment as a result of central government’s devolution agenda and the opportunities this will bring.

“Whilst I do not underestimate the challenges that lie ahead I hope to bring some stability to TVCA as it continues to develop through its improvement journey.”

Perriman takes over Interim Monitoring Officer Jeanette McGarry.