Ben Stewart gets a new job

Photo: Wayne Moore - Kelowna

June 5, 2013 - Ben Stewart makes a speech after he resigned his seat in West Kelowna.

​Ben Stewart has been rewarded for giving up his seat, in the Legislative Assembly, so Premier Christy Clark could run in the byelection for Westside-Kelowna.

An appointment for Stewart was expected, but nobody knew what his new position would be, until now.

The Premier is making Stewart an investment and trade commissioner. Stewart will be tasked to promote and advance British Columbia's trade and economic interests and strengthen the Province's government-to-government relationships in Asia.

"This is a crucial time in our trade relations with Asia and we want to strengthen the ties that attract new investment to British Columbia," said Premier Clark. "The appointment of Ben Stewart sends an important signal to these markets - we want to be your partner in business. That is why we are stepping up our game, increasing our government's presence in Asia and making clear this is a priority for us."

The investment and trade commissioner will represent and promote British Columbia in meetings with government officials in our priority markets in Asia, including hosting and acting as an official signatory for the Province.

"One of the keys to doing business in our priority markets is building and sustaining relationships, especially government to government relationships," said International Trade Minister Teresa Wat. "This appointment will allow key decision-makers to have direct access to a senior government official, which is a critical part of successfully doing business in Asia."

Stewart resigned his seat on June 11, 2013.