New recruit at Pegasus to lead economics advice

Pegasus Group has appointed Richard Cook as an associate in its Manchester office to lead on the company’s economics-related work.

Cook’s previous role was with the research team at New Economy, which delivers policy, strategy and research on behalf of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership. He spent five years at New Economy and has a particular strength in undertaking economic impact assessments to support the case for development. Prior to this he spent eight years at DTZ in its economic consulting team.

Seb Tibenham, regional director, said: “We’re seeing increased demand for economics expertise and Richard’s skills will strengthen our offer to existing clients and complement our existing expertise in land use planning. We have already carried out a range of economic assessments for Jaguar Land Rover, Tatton Estate Management, ASDA, Macdonald Hotels, and many more. I am confident that our clients will also be interested in Richard’s detailed knowledge of Manchester’s economy and growth potential.”

Cook said: “I’m excited to be joining Pegasus Group. I’m looking forward to the challenge of growing the company’s economics offer in the North West and around the country. It is undoubtedly an exciting time to be joining the Manchester team when Greater Manchester, Merseyside and other parts of the region are returning towards a strategic level of planning. Part of my role will be to review the economic growth plans for these areas, observe if they are robust, and ultimately seek to ensure they reflect the aspirations of the Northern Powerhouse agenda and devolution deals. Indeed, I very much look forward to meeting interested parties with regard to this agenda.”

Pegasus Manchester employs six people now.