Economic partnership appoints new chairman

The chief executive of a North-East law firm is to play a pivotal role in ensuring the future economic prosperity of County Durham amidst the ongoing challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

Glyn Llewellyn, a director at Mortons Law, which has offices in Durham, Seaham and Sunderland, has been appointed as the new chair of the County Durham Economic Partnership (CDEP).

Glyn will convene CDEP to deliver commitments agreed within the County Durham Vision 2035 relating to economic growth and prosperity.

The voluntary position will see Glyn play a key role in harnessing the voice of community and business sectors to shape the county’s economic strategy through the CDEP, which is made up of more than 60 public, private, voluntary and community sector organisations including Durham County Council.

The global pandemic and impacts of Brexit have affected many businesses and residents, and the CDEP’s work is now more important than ever. There are many opportunities as the county recovers, and Glyn will ensure the partnership focuses on current strengths in manufacturing, logistics, new and emerging technologies and the green economy, as well as tourism and hospitality.

Since joining Mortons in 2014, Glyn has championed its development, supporting the company and team to achieve annual growth of over 20 per cent per annum. He is also managing director of SRG Business Solutions, a business consultancy he founded in 2007. The company specialises in providing hands-on guidance to businesses on development, restructure, planning, finance, controls and sales strategies.

Glyn’s previous experience also includes being owner, CEO and MD in software, manufacturing and training companies, and holding a senior position for a multinational corporate organisation. In addition to this, he has spent time as a director with the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, and secretary to a specialist association.

He takes over from Simon Hanson who recently vacated the role after bringing a wealth of business experience to the post.

Glyn said: “I am looking forward to working with the partnership to achieve a strong economic future for the county. Being from County Durham, I am very passionate about the area and the development and growth of its local businesses, communities, and people.”

Amy Harhoff, corporate director of regeneration, economy and growth at Durham County Council, said: “Glyn is taking on the role of chair of CDEP at a crucial time for the county. As restrictions slowly ease and businesses begin to reopen, it is vital our economic strategy aids recovery and responds to the new challenges our communities and businesses face.

“We have a strong track record in the county for delivering major investment to our city, towns and villages. I look forward to working with Glyn and our partnership to build on our county’s current strengths and successes and drive inclusive growth.”

For more information about the County Durham Partnership and its work, visit countydurhampartnership.co.uk.