AN aerospace manufacturing expert at a Bradford firm has been appointed to the newly created role of business advisor to the West Yorkshire Mayor.

Mandy Ridyard, of Bradford-based firm Produmax, will chair a new board of local council and private sector leaders, tasked with driving Mayor Tracy Brabin’s pledge to champion the regional economy.

The move follows the launch of the West Yorkshire Plan, which sets out a mission to deliver economic growth and higher living standards.

Ms Ridyard has pledged to listen to the region’s almost 100,000 businesses, ensuring their challenges and opportunities are understood by the Mayor and five council leaders of Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield.

Ms Ridyard said: “I can’t wait to get stuck into this new role, where I’ll draw on the strengths of all our businesses and sectors, offering a listening ear and making sure their voices are heard.

“With the Mayor’s devolved powers and funding, this is a unique opportunity to transform our ecosystem and create an environment where businesses can thrive, creating well paid jobs and raising living standards for all.”

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Mandy’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter in our West Yorkshire story – one where all our businesses are listened to and lifted up to reach their full potential.”