DAVID Ross has stepped down from his vice chairmanship of Humber Local Enterprise Partnership.
The mobile phone retail entrepreneur, understood to be the town's richest son, has cited increasing business commitments outside of the area for the decision.
As extensively reported, he failed in his bid to turn round the fortunes of Grimsby's only listed firm Cosalt Plc, although bought out the Barnsley and Stockport focused workwear arm from the administrators.
The third generation of his family to chair the 140-year-old business, he took on the LEP role, serving under Lord Haskins, when business leadership support was first sought.
Back then Cosalt's wind energy arm was being promoted, with high hopes for the Humber and beyond. The LEP is taking the opportunity to refresh private sector membership.
Mr Ross said: "I have enjoyed supporting the LEP but my business interests are increasingly outside the area, which makes it hard for me to be here and commit as much time as I would like. I will do all I can to support the LEP from afar and wish the new board every success."
Lord Haskins added: "I am grateful for the work David has done with the LEP and his continued support is appreciated. I wish him well for the future."
