TVCA group chief executive steps down

Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) group chief executive Julie Gilhespie is leaving her role.

The move comes as the organisation introduces separate leadership for TVCA and the South Tees Development Corporation (STDC). 

Tom Bryant will serve as interim TVCA chief executive, while John Barnes is set to lead STDC.

The restructure comes as Tees Valley pushes for a new devolution deal and advances major projects.

Julie, a Middlesbrough native, has overseen a number of projects, including TVCA's ownership of Teesside International Airport and the regeneration of Redcar steelworks land into Teesworks. 

Julie, who will remain with TVCA until the end of March to assist with the transition, said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to serve the area I’ve called home all my life. 

“I took this role to make our region a place people can be proud of, and where young people can have excellent opportunities to live and work.

“Over the past six years, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside an incredible team and cabinet to do just that.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “Julie is an incredible professional.

“Her passion for the area she calls home is incredible, and she has fought at every step to improve people’s lives.

“Without Julie, we would not have achieved the progress we have seen.”

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