Leading Taxi Figure Joins the CBI

COVENTRY – January 22, 2009: In today’s harsh economic climate, the CBI (Confederation of British Industry) has strengthened its team with the appointment of one of the Midlands foremost business men and a leading figure in the Taxi industry. John Russell, the Chief Executive of Manganese Bronze Holdings has been appointed to the position of West Midlands Vice Chairman and will become the Regional Chairman later this year.

John joined the Board of Manganese Bronze in March 2007 as Group Chief Executive having previously been Vice President of Harley Davidson Motor Company and Managing Director of Harley Davidson Europe. Mr Russell began his career in the motor industry with Unipart and has worked in a variety of senior sales and marketing roles with Peugeot, Land Rover, Rover and BMW.

John Russell, who lives in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire said: “I am privileged to be asked to serve in this role and I look forward to representing the West Midlands region and the interests of its businesses, at a time when the role of the CBI as the voice of business could not be more important.’’

John Cridland, the CBI’s Deputy Director-General said: “The CBI’s regional network plays a vital role in our representation and policy-making and John’s substantial experience, coupled with his enthusiasm and commitment, will ensure the West Midlands helps shape a better environment for business. I very much look forward to his input in the challenging times ahead.”

Chris Clifford, CBI West Midlands Regional Director, said: “John is a well known and well respected businessman who is passionate about the West Midlands. These are crucial times for UK businesses and it is doubly important that a strong regional business voice is heard at the heart of the debates with Government and other opinion formers which I know John will provide. I very much look forward to working with him.”

John believes the future of British Business is illustrated by his own company and the Taxi Industry. “All industry is facing tough times but traditionally we have produced a product for the customer and it is the delivery of the right product at the right price and looking after the customer that will see us through. The irony is, “John continued,” that at the moment there has never been a better time to buy a taxi. Finance rates are the lowest they have ever been and everyone is doing all they can to entice the customer to buy.”

John finishes by saying of his appointment, “We must do all we can to ensure that the voice of business is heard at every level of Government and real steps are taken to turn the efforts of all businesses into a more prosperous future.”