ONE of the biggest names in urban regeneration in Britain has been appointed the new chief executive of Liverpool Vision.

Liverpool-born Max Steinberg, 58, will start at the regeneration and investment quango in July when its current boss Jim Gill retires.

Last night the city’s business community warmly welcomed Mr Steinberg’s appointment, with one leader saying he would bring new creativity and innovation to the job.

Liverpool Vision chairman Mike Parker said the company had launched a nationwide search for Mr Gill’s replacement and was delighted with the outcome.

"Max Steinberg has an impressive track record of innovation and achievement and impressed with his understanding of the issues facing Liverpool Vision and the city of Liverpool." he said.

"The next few years will provide Liverpool with both a huge challenge through the squeeze on public expenditure, but also significant opportunities to build on the city’s worldwide brand and improved image."

Mr Steinberg, was awarded the OBE in 1997 for services to housing and regeneration in Merseyside.

He started his career at the city council in 1975 before moving to the Housing Corporation where he spent the next 25 years.

During his time at the Housing Corporation he worked in all aspects of housing eventually becoming director of investment of regeneration in the north.

He worked on the task force set up in the wake of the 1981 Toxteth Riots.

His CV boasts playing a part in ensuring that government gave the Merseyside Special Allocation more than £50m for the city.

Much of it was spent in Toxteth on flagship projects like the Women’s Hospital, but it also helped the Eldonians in north Liverpool to the Albert Dock on the waterfront.

In 2003 he became chief executive of Elevate East Lancashire, the body charged with overseeing the Housing Market Renewal Initiative in the region.

During his time at Elevate he employed music mogul the late Tony Wilson and his partner Yvette Livesey to help re-brand East Lancashire into Pennine Lancashire.