20 Jan Erin Walsh Appointed as Director of West London Alliance
Erin Walsh has been appointed Director of West London Alliance (WLA), leading the partnership across seven boroughs to drive inclusive economic growth, innovation, and opportunity across the sub-region.
Councillor Barry Rawlings, Chair of West London Alliance and Leader of Barnet Council, says: “We are delighted to be welcoming Erin Walsh to West London Alliance. Erin brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of collaboration, which will be invaluable as we continue to tackle the challenges and opportunities facing West London.”
Erin brings over 20 years’ experience in place-based leadership, working across local government, consultancy, and national innovation organisations, and in close partnership with central government. She has led programmes spanning inclusive growth, regeneration, infrastructure, housing, and net zero, and is recognised for her skill in aligning partners to deliver shared priorities.
“I’m excited to be joining West London Alliance and to work closely with Leaders, Chief Executives, the WLA team and partners across the seven boroughs,” says Erin. “West London plays a vital role in London’s and the UK’s economy, and the Alliance has a unique role in bringing partners together around shared priorities. My focus will be on collaboration, evidence and delivery — ensuring the Alliance supports inclusive growth and continues to deliver meaningful outcomes for communities and businesses across West London.”
Prior to joining WLA, Erin held senior leadership roles at IMPOWER Consulting, Connected Places Catapult and Future Cities Catapult, leading complex multi-partner programmes supporting places across the UK and internationally.
Erin will be replacing David Francis, who stepped down as Director of West London Alliance in August after nearly seven years at the helm.
Councillor Rawlings continues: “The WLA has always thrived on partnership and innovation, and under Erin’s leadership we look forward to building on that foundation to deliver even more for our communities. I would also like to thank Vicky Clark for her excellent work as Interim Director over the past few months, ensuring continuity and progress during this transition.”
Vicky Clark adds: “It has been a privilege to lead West London Alliance on an interim basis and to work with such a committed team and partner boroughs. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together during this period and confident that Erin will bring fresh energy and expertise to build on the WLA’s strong foundations. I look forward to supporting a smooth transition and seeing what WLA continues to deliver for West London.”