A FORMER boss of Manchester Airport has been appointed the new chairman of the North-west Confederation of British Industry.

Geoff Muirhead moves up from vice-chair of the organisation to take the top job.

He said: "I am delighted to be offered the role of chairman and look forward to the challenges that it will bring.

"I have been involved with the CBI regional council for many years but this new role will enable me to help organise the business voice of the region in a coherent way for the future."

"Too many organisations are working individually, therefore, it is essential that we get together to make our voices heard collectively at Government and local level."

Mr Muirhead, aged 53, was named CBI Business Executive of the Year in 2001 for his leadership of Manchester Airport.