Teesworks' new chief executive

THE board of South Tees Development Corporation (STDC) has confirmed John Barnes as the new chief executive.

- By DANIEL HODGSON

Mr Barnes was already serving as STDC’s chief operating officer, on a salary of £145,000, which will not change following his confirmation as chief executive. Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) has said Mr Barnes will take on the role as part of moves to separate leadership arrangements for TVCA and the STDC.

He boasts more than 25 years of experience in development, regeneration and infrastructure projects.

The role is a newly created position, as TVCA and STDC now have separate chief executives, following the departure of group chief executive Julie Gilhespie, as reported on in December 2024.

Currently, the interim chief executive of TVCA is Tom Bryant, who has been serving in the role since March of this year. A decision on the new permanent chief executive is to be made at TVCA Cabinet on June 27.

As has been advertised, the salary for the role of TVCA chief executive will be £160,000 per year.