The county's inward investment agency has appointed a senior director.

Locate in Kent has appointed Simon Ryan as investment director with a brief to support jobs growth and economic prosperity in the area.

With a background in sales and marketing for industries including finance, property, construction and management, Mr Ryan will play a pivotal role in driving further inward investment in key growth sectors including manufacturing, life sciences, the creative and digital industries and food and drink.

The agency has helped more than 1,100 companies to create or retain over 70,000 jobs in the region since 1997.

Gavin Cleary, CEO, Locate in Kent, said: “His experience, knowledge and contacts will support our ambition to attract investment to Kent and Medway that creates sustainable employment and growth.

“Our job as the inward investment agency for Kent and Medway is to seize every opportunity to attract potential investors to the county and support businesses already here. Simon will have a key role to play in that ongoing mission.”

Mr Ryan added: “As an intern with Kent’s inward investment team at the start of my career, there is a special poignancy for me in joining Locate in Kent at this time and I am as committed to Kent’s success today as I was then.”

His appointment follows additional board appointments last month.

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