SIB Appoints New Chief Executive

The Strategic Investment Board (SIB) has announced the appointment of Steve Harper as its new Chief Executive. He will take up the role in January 2025.

Currently Executive Director of International Business and Skills at Invest Northern Ireland, Steve replaces SIB’s outgoing Chief Executive, Brett Hannam, who is retiring after almost 20 years with the organisation.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill commented:

“The Strategic Investment Board plays a vital role in supporting government departments, councils and other public sector organisations to deliver complex collaborative projects which benefit people across our society. I welcome the appointment of Steve Harper to continue that important work.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly added:

“I wish Steve Harper well in his new position. His expertise and leadership experience will help continue the crucial work of The Strategic Investment Board, supporting the delivery of major investment projects in our public sector, empowering communities and making Northern Ireland an excellent place to live, work and invest.”

The Ministers thanked outgoing Chief Executive Brett Hannam for his work with SIB over the years, wishing him well for his retirement.

With over 25 years’ experience in leadership roles, Steve Harper’s current responsibilities with Invest NI include facilitating inward investment and assisting companies in Northern Ireland in forecasting and meeting future skills requirements. Additionally, Steve oversees Invest NI’s global office network, ensuring the delivery of targets for both inward investment and export growth. His career has also included senior positions in Wrightbus, McAvoy Group, McCormick MacNaughton and Powerscreen. Prior to returning to Northern Ireland, Steve spent six years in Japan and Singapore working for Mitsubishi Materials Corporation.

He said:

“I’m deeply honoured to have been appointed as SIB’s new Chief Executive. This is an organisation with an outstanding reputation that Brett has helped to shape in conjunction with an exceptional team of senior leaders, innovators and industry experts. I look forward to getting started.”