A LEADING figure from the global energy sector will play a key role in driving forward the £1.3bn Swansea Bay City Deal.

Edward Tomp, vice-president and general manager of Valero UK in Pembroke, has been chosen as preferred candidate to become chair of the Swansea Bay City Deal’s Economic Strategy Board (ESB).

During an international, private sector career spanning over 30 years, Mr. Tomp has also held a number of senior positions in companies based in the USA and Australia.

The ESB will represent the wider community, including the private sector and third sector. It will act as the voice of business, provide strategic direction to the City Deal and oversee the development of business cases for each project. It will also have a role in advising the Joint Committee on opportunities to strengthen the City Deal’s impact.

Subject to the City Deal’s governance being agreed, Mr Tomp will be officially confirmed as ESB chairman.

Mr. Tomp, originally from California, said: “Through an innovative public and private sector partnership, the Swansea Bay City Deal will considerably boost growth in sectors including digital enterprise, life sciences and well-being, smart manufacturing and sustainable energy production. This will help build and improve the Swansea Bay City Region for local people and local businesses throughout Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire and Swansea as a number of major projects unfold across South West Wales. I’m extremely proud that I’ll play a part in delivering this tremendously exciting programme of considerable investment in coming years.”

As well as his position at Valero UK, Mr. Tomp has experience as a chairperson and member of Pembrokeshire College’s Corporation Board. He’s also been a member of Pembrokeshire Council’s A-Level Steering Group, the Milford Haven Enterprise Zone Advisory Board, and the Welsh Government’s Energy Wales Strategic Delivery Group.