Gray stays on as NWDA chairman
BRYAN Gray is staying on as chairman of the Northwest Regional Development Agency, the government announced today.
After months of speculation, the Department for Business, revealed that Mr Gray, and all the other regional development agency chairs, would be staying on due to the economic crisis.
Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said: “RDAs have a key role to play in helping businesses through these tough times.
“At this critical time for the economy I want to see continuity at the top of the RDAs. I thank the Chairs for agreeing to stay on. We need all their experience right now.”
Mr Gray, 55, said: “Stability is key during this economic down-turn and the agency is working hard with our partners to support businesses during this time.
“I am pleased to extend my tenure to see this support put in place and to witness the continued progress of key projects including the new regional strategy.”
Speculation had been rife for months as to who would take on the key role from the former boss of Preston boiler maker BAXI, who had been due to retire in December.
Former BBC broadcaster and chair of Central Salford URC Felicity Goodey and Peel Holdings deputy chairman Robert Hough were among the leading names in the frame along with Manchester Airports Group chief executive Geoff Muirhead and retired banker John McGuire.
