Former Wirral councillor Mark Pembleton is elected national chairman of the Chief Economic Development Officers Society

Jan 21 2009 by Matt Hurst, Birkenhead News

A FORMER Wirral council officer has landed an important national post.

Mark Pembleton, who is Cheshire County Council’s economic policy adviser, has been elected national chairman of the Chief Economic Development Officers Society.

He takes over the two-year post after being vice-chairman for the past four years.

Mr Pembleton has more than 25 years’ experience in economic development and policy work in the UK and abroad.

As well as holding a previous role in Wirral, he also worked for Ellesmere Port and Neston Borough Council.

He said: “I am really excited to be taking on this national role at a most important time when local councils are very much at the front line of helping businesses and communities to withstand the recession.

“The CEDOS membership is already taking powerful, practical steps to assist firms by speeding up payments, helping with local procurement and making sure businesses get help with business loans and business rates.

“I really believe that change is just around the corner with the new Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Bill going through Parliament.

“This bill will increase the importance of economic development to councils and provide them with the tools to do the job.”