Barry Dodd will take up his three-year appointments on 13 March 2006, representing the business sector.
Alun Michael said:
"I am confident that Barry will act as a' champion of the region' and will use his considerable skills and experience to make a strong contribution to the work of the Regional Development Agency, whose role is boosting productivity and creating jobs and prosperity for everyone in the Yorkshire and Humber region. #
"This is a time of great opportunity for the organisation, particularly as it develops further its strategy for the future. His wealth of experience in delivering success, and will help the RDA continue to make a real difference to economic development in the region."
Terry Hodgkinson chair of Yorkshire Forward RDA, said:
"I wholeheartedly welcome Barry to the Yorkshire Forward Board. As a respected businessman with a wealth of experience in companies of all sizes and an admirable commitment to developing the innovation agenda, I am confident Barry will offer an informed and refreshing perspective to our activities.
Throughout the recruitment process he demonstrated an impressive understanding of regional issues and associated economic opportunities with an enthusiasm for contributing to Yorkshire Forward's objectives and the economic development of our region."
In the last year Yorkshire Forward has created and safeguarded more than 27,000 new jobs; helped create and attract more than 1,100 new businesses, provided nearly 66,000 learning opportunities and attracted more than £333 million private sector investment - achieving or exceeding all of the targets it was set.
This appointment was made following open competition in accordance with the requirements set down in the Commissioner for Public Appointments Code of Practice. All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees' political activity (if any declared) to be made public. If no political declaration has been made, this should be stated.
