Chris Corlett has announced he is stepping down as Chief Executive of the Department of Economic Development to pursue new opportunities outside IOM Government.

Chris said:

‘I joined IOM Government in March 2003 as Chief Executive of the Department of Trade and Industry. I only planned to stay in IOM Government for 5 years, but I am amazed to find I have stayed nearly 14. I regularly like to have new challenges, which I certainly had in both the Department of Social Care and here in the Department of Economic Development.

‘I feel like a fresh challenge. Also my 3 children are grown up now, so I have more freedom to pursue different interests and opportunities.

‘I will miss the wonderful team of people here in the Department who work so hard to help maintain and grow our hugely successful economy which is the envy of many countries. May I take this opportunity to thank the many hard-working public servants who I have worked with during my time in Government – without their dedication, our community would not have the quality of life we are so fortunate to enjoy.’

Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for the Department of Economic Development, commented:

‘I would like to thank Chris for his contribution to IOM Government and the Island’s economy. We wish him all the best for the future.’