Overview

Terry Hodgkinson (30 March 1949 – 13 July 2019) was a British businessman best known for his role as Chair of Yorkshire Forward, the regional development agency (RDA) for Yorkshire and the Humber. He was appointed chair on 14 December 2003 and led the organisation until he stepped down in December 2010. Hodgkinson's tenure covered a period of active regional investment and economic turbulence associated with the global financial crisis of 2007–2009.

Yorkshire Forward and its remit

Yorkshire Forward was one of several RDAs established by the UK government to promote economic development and regeneration at the regional level. Its remit included supporting business growth, attracting inward investment, improving skills and innovation, and leading regeneration projects in towns and cities across Yorkshire and the Humber. RDAs acted as strategic partners between central government, local authorities, businesses and universities.

Tenure and context

Appointed in late 2003, Hodgkinson guided Yorkshire Forward through much of the 2000s when regional policy focused on modernising infrastructure and boosting competitiveness. The period also encompassed the 2008 financial crisis, which required RDAs to adapt priorities to protect jobs and support business resilience. Hodgkinson stepped down in December 2010; national policy towards regional development evolved afterward, and RDAs were abolished as a network in the early 2010s.

Role and responsibilities

As chair, Hodgkinson's responsibilities were typical of non-executive leadership of a public development body: setting strategic direction, overseeing governance and accountability, engaging stakeholders across the public and private sectors, and ensuring investment decisions aligned with regional priorities. Chairs also represent the organisation publicly, work with ministers and regional partners, and help shape long-term economic planning.

Legacy and significance

While specific projects and outcomes reflect the work of many people and institutions, the chair of an RDA plays a visible part in a region's economic story. Under Hodgkinson's leadership, Yorkshire Forward continued to pursue regeneration and business support amid changing economic circumstances. He died on 13 July 2019 at the age of 70.

Notable facts

  • Born 30 March 1949; died 13 July 2019.
  • Served as Chair of Yorkshire Forward from 14 December 2003 until December 2010.
  • Led the regional body during the mid-2000s expansion and the 2008–2009 financial downturn.
  • Yorkshire Forward was part of a UK-wide network of RDAs focused on regional economic development.