STDC appoints new chief executive

The South Tees Development Corporation (STDC) has named John Barnes as its new chief executive.

Already chief operating officer, John was unanimously approved for the top role by the board on June 10, following a 25-year career in regeneration and infrastructure. 

His appointment comes as leadership structures are separated between STDC and the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA), in line with recommendations from last year’s Tees Valley Review.

STDC is responsible for the transformation of the former Redcar Steelworks site, now Teesworks, which sits at the heart of the Teesside Freeport.

The 4500-acre site is fast becoming a hub for green industry, with major investments in offshore wind, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

John said: “I’m very pleased to take on the role of chief executive with the backing of the board.

“The huge progress being made across the Teesworks site is great to see – and the Development Corporation has played a key role in this alongside our Teesworks Ltd joint venture partners. 

“We continue to play an important role in the delivery of key projects and infrastructure across the site, engaging with Government and ensuring we continue to see major projects, like Net Zero Teesside Power, delivered across the site.”

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