BRITAIN'S leading employers' group has appointed a new regional director for the West Midlands.

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has appointed Chris Clifford, who has been covering for the former regional director, Carolyn Hannah, for the past 10 months while she was on maternity leave.

But she has decided not to return to work and Mr Clifford has been recruited to the post full-time.

Career

The father-of-four began his CBI career in the East Midlands as assistant director, before moving to the north-west in 1993, as regional director.

"I aim to ensure that the voice of business in the West Midlands is heard loud and clear in those places where it most matters," he said.

"We will represent the views and concerns of our members strongly and effectively, particularly those in the beleaguered manufacturing sector which is so vital to the success of the regional economy."