JOBS are being created by a newly formed alliance that aims to make the region an even bigger force in car manufacture.

The North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA), which has set up headquarters in Sunderland, brings together car manufacturing businesses to help the North-East grow its supply chain, unlock its potential and improve regional competitiveness.

It is now interviewing for key roles including a project manager, marketing manager and office assistant to work with chief executive Paul Butler to drive the new organisation forward.

NEAA brings together representatives from businesses such as Nissan, Nifco, Komatsu, Sevcon and Hyperdrive.

Sunderland City Council is supporting NEAA to help provide a strong, unified voice for the region’s automotive sector to win orders across the UK and in global markets.

Funding from the European Regional Development Fund allows eligible North-East businesses to promote their capabilities within the NEAA network and take part in business excellence initiatives free of charge. Those enterprises looking to enter the automotive supply chain can also benefit from training to help them overcome the barriers to enter the market.

Councillor Paul Watson, Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “Sunderland is already recognised as the location of one of the world's best car manufacturing plants, and with the creation of NEAA we have the dedicated resources which will help to position the city and region as an important hub for the automotive manufacturing and supply sector.

"If we can attract more supply companies to the region it will help the UK economy and strengthen the region’s ability to compete globally.”

NEAA is working closely with the UK Trade and Investment’s Automotive Investment Organisation.

NEAA is planning a launch event on Friday, March 27. Members benefit from business and collaboration opportunities, regular networking and knowledge transfer events.