Williams to stay as SWRDA chair

0
1861

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson today confirmed that Juliet Williams will stay on as South West RDA Chairman up to December 2009.
 
Seven RDA Chairs across the country have been asked to continue in post for up to a year. Announcing the extended terms, Lord Mandelson said: 
 
“RDAs have a key role to play in helping businesses through these tough times. At this critical time for the economy I want to see continuity at the top of the RDAs. I thank the Chairs for agreeing to stay on. We need all their experience right now.”
 
 
Commenting on her extended appointment, Juliet Williams said: “The Secretary of State has asked me, with fellow RDA Chairs who would have been standing down, to stay in office a little longer to provide maximum continuity during these turbulent economic times. 
 
“Of course I am happy to accept this further challenge, and am honoured to have been asked to do so. RDAs will not be distracted from their focus on the concerns of businesses and communities as the economic downturn takes it’s grip.”
 
A recruitment process was already underway for a successor as South West RDA Chair. This process will continue, but the date on which the successful candidate will take up appointment has been delayed. It is expected that Juliet’s successor will do so on or before 14 December 2009.