The managing director of Manchester Airport has been named the new chair of the North West Business Leadership Team (NWBLT).
Chris Woodroofe will succeed Simone Peppi, co-founder of The Pilot Group, as chair of the group that looks to bring together local and international businesses that are investing in the North West. Ms Peppi will continue as deputy chair.
Emma Degg, chief executive of the NWBLT, said: “Chris has a well-deserved reputation for elegantly driving change and making a positive impact in sometimes challenging circumstances. Manchester Airport lies at the heart of our economy, and the impressive transformations Chris has already delivered are testament to his acumen.
“The success of the North West Business Leadership Team depends upon working in a positive and collaborative way with all our stakeholders, as we strive to make the Region a better place. Chris perfectly embodies those values, and we are proud that he will be leading us.’
“Simone’s extensive commercial experience, strong values, and a passion for positive environmental change will continue to help drive our work. Under her leadership the NWBLT has gone from strength to strength – particularly her regular reminders to us of the crucial role played by SMEs in driving the region’s growth. We are grateful to her for her service and so pleased that she has agreed to remain as Deputy Chair.’
Mr Woodroofe joined Manchester airport in 2022 from Gatwick, where he was chief operating officer.
Chris Woodroofe said: ‘Here at Manchester Airport we often talk about how proud we are to connect the North to the world. Whether we’re helping friends and families to come together, linking businesses to opportunities in other countries or empowering people to travel for fun – connection is at the heart of everything we do.
“Connectivity makes life easier and better in so many ways and there are few better examples of that than in our regional business community. There are many metrics that show the North West is leading the way when it comes to innovation and growth and that wouldn’t be possible were it not for the strong links between the area’s amazing businesses.
“That’s why I’m so proud and honoured to be able to take the position as Chair of the North West Business Leadership Team. Bringing together business leaders to shape the future of the region is a really exciting opportunity and I look forward to playing my part in the continued success of our area.”
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