York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority

Jo was appointed as the Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire & Crime by York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith and took up her role in July 2024. She has committed to tackling domestic abuse, reducing levels of violence against women and girls, building public confidence in policing and driving budget efficiencies to increase investment in prevention and early intervention to tackle the causes of crime and anti- social behaviour.

Born in North Yorkshire, Jo grew up in York and after graduating from the University of Warwick lived in Paris for a number of years before returning to the UK to continue her career. Her professional background includes work in the private and voluntary sectors working across the crime and justice sector and in youth provision.

Jo has also worked in politics during periods of government and in opposition, serving as a trusted adviser to leading national politicians. In 2023 she was elected to City of York Council, leading on health and adult social care until her appointment as Deputy Mayor. She lives in York with her family and continues to serve as a local councillor, representing some of the most deprived communities in the city.