Tees Valley Combined Authority head to step down from role

TVCA is getting rid of her role and bringing in two new bosses instead. Tom Bryant, who currently oversees infrastructure, will temporarily lead TVCA, while John Barnes is expected to become the new boss of South Tees Development Corporation (STDC), subject to approval.

This change comes at an important time, as the region is in talks with the UK Government about more local powers and big investment plans.

Julie Gilhespie (Image: STUART BOULTON) Julie, who grew up in Middlesbrough, has been in charge for more than six years. During her time, she helped bring Teesside Airport back into public hands, pushed forward the transformation of Teesworks, and secured millions of pounds for investment projects.

Reflecting on her time in the role, she said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to serve the area I’ve called home all my life. I took this role to lead a team securing investment and attracting jobs, to make our region a place people can be proud of, and where young people can have excellent opportunities to live and work.

“Over the past six years, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside an incredible team and Cabinet to do just that. We’ve delivered ground breaking achievements and Tees Valley Combined Authority is making a real difference to people’s quality of life.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen praised her efforts, saying: “Julie is an incredible professional who has worked tirelessly alongside me to deliver the promises I made to the people of Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool.

READ MORE:

“Her passion for the area she calls home is incredible and she has fought at every step to improve people’s lives. She has made an immense impact and the projects she has directed will be positively felt for generations by local people.”

Hartlepool Borough Council leader and TVCA Deputy Mayor Councillor Brenda Harrison also thanked her, saying: “I would like to thank Julie for her hard work and commitment over many years. I would also like to take this opportunity to wish her well for the future.”

The leadership shake-up was agreed on in January, and Julie will stay until the end of March 2025 to help with the transition.