Ian Haythornthwaite, deputy chief executive of the North West Development Agency, is to leave the RDA to become director of finance and sports rights at BBC North.

The move comes as the BBC adds to its management team ahead of opening at Peel’s Media City UK in Salford Quays in 2011.

Ian Haythornthwaite, who has been at the NWDA for six years, said: “I’ve enjoyed my time at the Agency greatly. I feel privileged to have been part of so many projects and programmes that are making a real difference to the Northwest, particularly Ancoats in East Manchester and in supporting Cumbria through the recent floods.

“However, the time is now right for me to take on a new challenge and I’m very excited to become part of BBC North. I’ve always been an advocate for the Northwest, so this role is a great opportunity for me to continue to be part of something that will benefit the whole of the North.”

Steven Broomhead, NWDA chief executive, said: “Ian has made a major contribution to the Agency over the past 6 years and his expertise, knowledge and approach will be a huge loss. Ian’s contribution to ensuring the successful delivery of Agency projects and programmes has been extremely significant, and on a personal level, he has always been a great source of support. I know Ian will be a great asset to the BBC and wish him luck in this exciting new role.

“Ian will leave the Agency in the late summer and succession arrangements for his post are currently under discussion. A decision on this will be made shortly.”

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