The head of Irish retail forecourt group Maxol has been appointed as the new chair of the CBI in Northern Ireland.
Brian Donaldson, who had been vice chair of the business organisation, succeeds Richard Gillan, managing partner at Grant Thornton, who has been re-appointed vice chair after two years as chairman.
Speaking after his appointment, Mr Donaldson said the CBI is ready to work with the Executive to help grow a competitive and sustainable economy in the north.
“I recognise the ambition is not without its challenges,” he said. “The greater tax burden now faced by businesses following the Autumn Budget threatens to impact their ability to plan and deliver growth.
Our local businesses need the CBI’s support in many areas, including having access to a skilled workforce to help them drive economic growth. They also need a clear pathway to achieving a low-carbon economy.
“As the voice of local business and the new chair of the CBI we are ready to play our part in working collaboratively with our partners and key stakeholders in government to help shape policy and create the right conditions for a confident, energised and prosperous economy that not only serves to benefit everyone but will attract new investment for future generations.”
Welcoming the appointment, CBI NI director, Angela McGowan, said: “Having worked closely with him in recent years on issues such as electric vehicle infrastructure and energy, I know that he will bring a wealth of experience and strategic thinking to the CBI NI Council and the CBI’s Chairs Committee.
“Local CEOs expect a challenging 2025 as employment costs continue to rise, the labour market remains relatively tight and geo-political tensions are a cause for concern,” she added.
“Nonetheless, I am also confident that business leaders are thinking about the opportunities that technology, automation and the Windsor Framework present.
“I know that many CEOs will welcome Brian’s leadership during these changing times.”
