Former Labour MP Iain Wright replaces Stan Higgins as NEPIC chief

Wright, who served as MP for Hartlepool between 2004 and 2017, succeeds Stan Higgins, who announced plans to step down in March.

Higgins, who has headed the Teesside-based body representing the chemical processing industries and supply chain since its creation in 2004, is retiring.

He said: “It’s reassuring that such an outstanding candidate has taken over this important leadership role.”

On taking over from Higgins, Wright said: “Under Stan’s excellent leadership, NEPIC is a powerful organisation, representing firms in the North East’s biggest industrial sector and working with them to create jobs and prosperity for our region. Stan will be a tough act to follow, but I am determined to work hard with companies to champion this vital sector and our great region.”

Wright, who was also chairman of the Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy Select Committee between 2015 and 2017, will report to NEPIC chairman Ian Swales and the body’s board of directors.

Wright added: “Future economic success for the North East will be based upon science, innovation, skills and a nimble and competitive manufacturing base. With great co-ordination and collaboration across industry, we can unlock still further the enormous potential of this sector in our region.”