Tributes for business leader Bryan Gray

Mr Gray served as chief executive of three influential representative bodies before his retirement four years ago.

The first was as chief excutive of what was then the Federation of the Retail Licensed Trade, now Hospitality Ulster.

He then moved on to head up the independent reyal group NIIRTA - now Retail NI before joining Manufacturing Northern Ireland now led by his successor Stephen Kelly.

“Bryan made a huge contribution not only to Manufacturing NI, but to other business groups too,” he said.

“He had developed an incredible knowledge across a wide business area including rates, energy, planning, licensing and much more and was always very happy to share this experience and his time. We all learnt a lot whenever we spent time with him.

“News of Bryan’s passing has shocked us all at Manufacturing NI.

“It was only three and a half years ago that Bryan retired and started a new life with his wife, Angelica, in the Philippines.

“Bryan fought hard for NI’s manufacturers, as he did previously for its independent retailers and licensees, and we know he fought his illness with equal determination.

The MNI Board and many others are deeply saddened by his passing and send our condolences to his wife Angelica, his children Catherine, Christopher and Isabella, to the wider family and his many friends.

Retail NI chief executive Glyn Roberts said: “Bryan made a huge contribution to the retail, hospitality and manufacturing sectors. He played a key role in establishing NIIRTA/Retail NI, advancing our policy agenda and was a true champion for independent retailers”

“When I accepted the role of CEO, Bryan was immensely helpful in providing support and advice. He will be missed.”

Current chief executive at Hospitality Ulster Colin Neill said Mr Gray had worked tirelessly representing hospitality businesses across the province.

“With a reputation as a straight talking, hardworking individual, Brian was equally well respected by the industry and by his advisories, who he lobbied when representing the industries’ interests.”