North West Development Agency chief executive Steven Broomhead is to step down from his post.

Broomhead, who was appointed in 2003 to the regional development agency (RDA), said today that he would take early retirement. He is the latest in a string of high profile staff members to leave RDAs, which are set to be abolished by the government by April 2012.

In June, NWDA deputy chief Ian Haythornthwaite moved to the position of director of finance and sports rights at BBC North.

Speaking at the NWDA’s annual general meeting today, Broomhead said: “I have enjoyed my time in this role immensely and it has been a privilege to work with so many committed partners and talented staff. The achievements of the Agency are there for all to see.

“However, I feel the time is now right for me to step down and get a better work/life balance after seven and a half years in a very busy and demanding role. The Agency has a strong executive team which will continue to ensure a smooth transition and closure, working closely with government and our many partners in the region.”

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