The search is on to find a new director to lead the Growth Vision for North Wales onto the next stage in its journey.
With Heads of Terms on the verge of being finalised for the £1billion North Wales Growth Deal, it’s a crucial and exciting time for the North Wales Economic Ambition Board.
A programme office is being established and the new programme director position will be pivotal in taking forward the seven programmes that make up the Deal.
Dyfrig Siencyn, chair of the Ambition Board and leader of Gwynedd Council, said this permanent role will work closely with the region’s six local authorities, the private sector and representatives from further and higher education, who have been united in bringing the Deal to this point.
“The programme director will offer professional leadership and support the Ambition Board to deliver the Growth Vision and the portfolio of programmes,” said Cllr Siencyn.
“Collectively, these programmes and the projects contained within them will make a significant difference to the performance of the regional economy.”
Colin Everett, chief executive of Flintshire Council and lead chief executive on the Ambition Board, added: “We need an individual who is experienced in leading large and complex programmes to successful outcomes; who values high professional standards and who can translate values and vision into practice and delivery.
“They will need to have a track record of operating at a senior level and managing complex and varied stakeholder relationships effectively.”
The Ambition Board is also recruiting for a digital programme manager, an energy programme manager, a land and property programme manager and an operations manager.
Iwan Trefor Jones, current lead director on the Ambition Board and corporate director at Gwynedd Council, is leaving the organisations to become Deputy Chief Executive at social housing group, Cartrefi Cymunedol Gwynedd.
He thanked his colleagues for their support and believes with the firm commitment of the UK and Welsh Government, the Growth Deal will have a significant impact on the region’s economic prosperity for generations to come.
Mr Trefor Jones said: “It has been a great privilege to be part of the team which has been involved in this exciting work and in developing a new and innovative approach to partnership working across North Wales, especially with the private sector, and I look forward to seeing the programmes come to fruition from 2020 onwards.”
Cllr Siencyn added: "I would like to thank Iwan for the tireless work and leadership he has shown in helping to develop the Growth Vision and the Growth Deal. His dedication, diligence and vision have played a major part in uniting all partners and stakeholders, and we wish him well for the future.”
