Enterprise body brings in director from Whitehall

Ben Rimmington joins from the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills, where he was deputy director for economic development.

He worked on the establishment of LEPs and enterprise zones, the roll-out of the department’s local network and supported the development of the “city deal” devolution bids.

Neil McLean, chairman of the public-private partnership, said: “I am pleased that we have been able to appoint someone of Ben’s calibre to work with the board to deliver our economic plan.

“Ben brings with him an exceptional understanding of economic development and experience of working within the highest levels of government and with business.

“He will be a great asset in helping us achieve our vision of making this a globally competitive city region.”

Mr Rimmington said: “I am delighted to have been given the chance to apply my experience of working between national government and business to help drive the economic development of a part of the world that means a lot to me.

“The LEP has already made great strides since its establishment, and I am looking forward enormously to helping Neil, the board and council leaders realise the city region’s full economic potential.”  

He was educated in Leeds and went on to study German and French at Cambridge University. He now lives in Ilkley with his wife and two young sons.

His previous civil service appointments include managing the Government’s relationship with the automotive industry, leading negotiations on European Union employment law issues including the working time directive, and work on energy, competition and better regulation policy.

The taxpayer-funded post was advertised at up to £80,000 a year. The Leeds City Region is a partnership of 11 local authorities in West and North Yorkshire.