International trade expert to join Thames Estuary growth board
International trade expert Frances Moffett-Kouadio is set to become strategic investment director at the Thames Estuary Growth Board (TEGB) in a bid to attract a further £2billion of new investment to the area, dubbed the UK's 'growth gateway to the world'.
Moffett-Kouadio is currently director exports North America at the government's department for business and trade, and from February next year, will work with Kate Willard, the government-appointed Thames Estuary Envoy and Growth Board chair.
Willard OBE said: "The Thames Estuary is a shimmering opportunity, and this is a hugely exciting appointment which marks the critical next phase in our work.
"Frances will ensure that Thames Estuary Growth Board is results and market driven, introducing investors into the Estuary, and facilitating and transacting deals.
"Here at the Growth Board, we work in close partnership with international businesses, investors and local communities to transform the area, making the most of the Thames Estuary’s unique assets and unparalleled location to turn its potential into good, green growth for the local area and the national economy."
Moffett-Kouadio added: "I’m thrilled to be joining the Thames Estuary Growth Board and playing a part in realising the UK’s number one growth opportunity.
"I share Kate’s vision of a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous future, and am excited to bring my experience and expertise to connecting and activating the high investment, high innovation, hydro-economy of The Thames Estuary, the UK's growth gateway to the world."
The private sector-led Thames Estuary Growth Board was formed in late 2019 and brings together international business and political leaders from across north Kent, south Essex, east London, the City of London, and the River Thames to drive investment in the region.
The last 12 months have seen the development of major investment opportunities in hydrogen, river freight and infrastructure, and the launch of the Investuary inward investment platform.
There have also been international trade and investment missions and visits from delegations to the Thames Estuary covering the USA, Latin America and South Africa.
Moffett-Kouadio joined the department of trade and industry (DTI), now the department for business and trade (DBT) as a fast-streamer in 2001, following a successful teaching career.
She has a range of experience in different markets, including Iraq, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh,
South Africa and was the director of trade and investment at the British Embassy Abu Dhabi for five years, before moving to Hong Kong, where she was director of trade and investment for six years.
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