Member Article

Tees Valley Combined Authority announces MD appointment

The Tees Valley Combined Authority has appointed former Newcastle City Council man Andrew Lewis as its Managing Director.

The Combined Authority cements and formalises the partnership between the five local authorities and Tees Valley Unlimited,the private sector led Local Enterprise Partnership for Tees Valley, designed to drive economic prosperity and growth in the Tees Valley.

Previously Assistant Chief Executive at the Council, Andrew has experience in securing deals with government on funding and devolution and will join up with the body in July later this year.

A former senior HM Treasury economist, and Director of the Northern Way, Mr Lewis will bring experience in working on economic strategy, transport and inward investment to the role.

Councillor Sue Jeffrey, Chair of Tees Valley Combined Authority and Leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: “Andrew has the knowledge and understanding of business and partnerships to be able to work closely and effectively with all sectors to develop and seize opportunities to diversify and grow the Tees Valley economy.

“Tees Valley has bold ambitions and aspirations and Andrew’s qualities and excellent track record made him the ideal candidate to take the helm of the Combined Authority.”

Paul Booth, Tees Valley Unlimited Chair and Combined Authority member, said “The calibre and enthusiasm of the Combined Authority’s new Managing Director will be great assets in helping Tees Valley successfully meet the challenges and opportunities ahead, particularly in the key growth sectors of digital and creative, low carbon technology, logistics, advanced manufacturing and engineering.”

Tees Valley Combined Authority has negotiated the first phase of an ambitious devolution deal with Government and also will build on the firm economic foundations that have been established by TVU, which now is an integral part of the new statutory body.

The LEP, a successful collaboration between the private sector and local government, aims to create 25,000 jobs and £1bn extra GVA by 2022.

Andrew said: “I am delighted to be joining the Combined Authority at the start of an exciting process of devolution, with the opportunity to deliver a real step-change in economic growth and new jobs for the Tees Valley.

“Tees Valley has a reputation as a dynamic and forward-thinking area, with huge potential, and a great track record in partnership working.”