THE Department of Economic Development has announced the appointment of Heather Smallwood in the newly formed role of head of marketing.

Heather is one of two female fellow's in the Chartered Institute of Marketing in the Island.

She leaves her previous position at the Isle of Man International Business School where she set up and ran the CIM programmes alongside her own consultancy business.

Minister for Economic Development Allan Bell MHK said: "I am delighted that Heather Smallwood has been appointed to this important new role for the department.

"My department is committed to continuing the economic growth we have enjoyed over the past 26 years so it is vital that we continue to strive for success.

"With government committed to diversification of the economy Heather's broad experience of our business sectors and markets will prove invaluable in helping a unified consistent approach to marketing the Isle of Man."

Colin Kniveton chief executive of the department commented: "I am particularly pleased to welcome Heather to the team and for her to bring her marketing experience to support the department in creating economic development for the Island in what are very challenging times."

Heather has more than 20 years experience working on a wide variety of marketing projects covering the public and private sector as well as many profit and non-profit organisations.

She said: "I am delighted to be taking on the role of head of marketing. These are indeed challenging times. However new ways of creating development which complement our traditional niche markets are needed and there are a number of opportunities and approaches which we will be considering over the forthcoming months. I look forward to being able to introduce these initiatives for our local and off-island customers."

Heather will start the position in December.