In a significant move to bolster the North East's economic growth, the North East Combined Authority has appointed its new Chair and Vice-Chair of its new Business and Economy Board.
John McCabe, Chief Executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce, will be the new Chair of the Business and Economy Board. Emily Cox of Lloyds Banking Group has been named Vice-Chair.
Leading the Business and Economy Board, McCabe will provide expert strategic advice to North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and her Cabinet as they implement the region’s emerging Local Growth Plan. This board will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the North East by sharing insights from the business sector and driving initiatives that create opportunities for the region's residents.
Touching on this appointment, McCabe said:
“I’m delighted to have been appointed Chair of the North East Combined Authority Business and Economy Board. This is a responsibility I will take on, independent of my role as Chamber Chief Executive. I’m looking forward to working with the Mayor, local authority leaders, and their teams to ensure the huge benefits of devolution are felt by people and businesses across our region.
“We want to establish the North East as the region of real opportunity, where there is no limit on ambition and where businesses of all sizes and sectors can thrive.
“To realise this potential, leaders in every sector of our economy all need to lean in and put our shoulders to the wheel. I’m very well aware of the urgency and scale of the issues this region faces but we also have incredible opportunities before us. Now is the time to act differently and think bigger, to reset the relationship between politics, local government, and business. That’s how we’ll deliver for the North East.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this team effort and want businesses and investors across the region to know, we have your back.”

Emily Cox, Group Ambassador for the North and Director of Colleague Relations at Lloyds Banking Group, will serve as Vice-Chair of the Business and Economy Board. Her extensive experience in the banking sector will be invaluable in supporting the board's mission to foster economic development.
As Chair, McCabe will attend cabinet meetings, bringing his business acumen and leadership to the forefront of the combined authority's efforts. This voluntary position underscores the commitment of both McCabe and Cox to driving positive change and economic growth in the North East.
Kim McGuinness, Mayor of the North East added:
“We are thrilled to have appointed John McCabe as Chair of our Business and Economy Board and Emily Cox as Vice-Chair.
“This is an exciting time for North East businesses as we harness the power of devolution to support regional businesses, drive forward investment and stimulate the local economy. The message is clear – the North East means business.
“I’m looking forward to working with John and Emily, and the Business and Economy Board to harness the experiences of businesses in the region to deliver tactical, targeted support and investment that will boost growth and opportunities for business in our amazing region.”
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