York and North Yorkshire’s climate lead is new Commission Vice Chair

Councillor Jenny Kent, York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority’s lead for Climate and the Environment, has joined Yorkshire & Humber Climate Commission as a Vice Chair. 

Cllr Kent, who was appointed to the Combined Authority portfolio by York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith earlier in 2026, joins the Yorkshire & Humber Climate Commission in a voluntary capacity as Vice Chair for North Yorkshire. 

She takes over the Commission role from Councillor Claire Douglas, who has stepped down to focus on her role as Deputy Mayor of York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. 

On her appointment, Cllr Jenny Kent said, “The weather we have seen over the last few years is the least extreme weather we will experience in our lifetimes. This affects us all individually, in our own communities in Yorkshire and Humber, across the United Kingdom and, of course, internationally.  

“I am honoured and delighted to be part of the Commission and help support the vital work already being done. 

“We have huge regional expertise and evidence-led research to inform how we can best act collectively and effectively to combat climate change, and to support each other as we adapt, protect and improve our communities and our environment through the challenges ahead.” 

Jenny Kent started her career as Editor on the Energy Desk with McGraw Hill. She has practised as a barrister in London and Leeds and taught Law at York University before being elected to City of York Council in 2023, when she was made the council’s Executive Member for Environment. She has also worked with internationally acclaimed charity The Against Malaria Foundation. 

Rosa Foster, Director of Yorkshire & Humber Climate Commission, said: “We are so pleased to have Councillor Jenny Kent join us as our North Yorkshire Vice Chair. She has a huge amount of experience and knowledge and brings so much skill and passion to tackling climate change. I can’t think of anyone better to take over from Cllr Claire Douglas in the role. 

“We would like to thank Cllr Douglas for the commitment she gave to the Commission. Her wisdom, energy and support has been invaluable and very much appreciated by us all.” 

The Commission, the largest in the UK and the only regional climate commission, is led by a Chair, Asif Husain-Naviatti, working closely with the Director and supported by Vice-Chairs who each represent the sub-regions of Yorkshire and the Humber. Around 40 Commissioners collectively make key decisions and set the strategic direction, with 450 people involved in the Commission’s work. 

Other Commission Vice Chairs are Cllr Scott Patient of Calderdale Council (West Yorkshire) and Councillor Paul West of East Riding of Yorkshire Council (North Bank of the Humber). A South Yorkshire Vice Chair is also in the process of being confirmed.