Former Tesco boss supports Liverpool artistic venture

LMA Choir at X-Factor

Former Tesco chief Sir Terry Leahy has invested in Liverpool-based media, music and performing arts specialists LMA (Liverpool Media Academy).

The ex-boss of the retail giant and Bill Currie, founder of major investment firm William Currie Group, have joined the LMA team to drive forward its exciting plans for international expansion.

The pair began talks with brothers and co-founders Richard and Simon Wallace in 2018.

Now, they have pledged their support to LMA and its students to help launch a new chapter of growth for the business, which includes opening a London campus and five international campuses.

LMA was propelled into the spotlight last year when a group of its students, ‘The LMA Choir’, made it through to the live shows of ITV hit show, The X Factor.

The choir wowed judge and mentor Robbie Williams with their infectious enthusiasm and incredible vocal talents.

Sir Terry and Bill will now work closely with the brothers, as well as their team of industry experts, to help develop LMA and promote the brand globally.

Sir Terry said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of LMA. The success is a true testament to Richard and Simon’s dedication, their team’s passion and, of course, our students’ talents. I’m looking forward to working closely with the team to help take LMA into its next chapter.”

Bill, who has a track record in backing ventures at an early stage, including such successes as ASOS, The Hut Group and Metapack, said: “It’s clear to see that LMA has a bright future and is on track for a fantastic period of growth – as a city, Liverpool should be proud of the talent coming out of LMA and I’m confident that, with the right support and growth strategy, its students will have an unrivalled platform from which to launch their career.”

Sir Terry Leahy

Based across two campuses at Hope Street and Duke Street, LMA offers BA Honours degree courses and BTEC courses in acting, digital film & TV production, games art & animation, music performance & industry and musical theatre.

Richard Wallace said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Sir Terry and Bill have joined us and become part of the LMA family.

“We have some major developments in the pipeline and their support will help drive these forward to allow us to inspire more future stars than ever before to achieve their dreams – from across Liverpool and beyond.”

Simon Wallace added: “2018 was an incredible year for us, creating lifelong memories for our students, and we are now focused on maintaining that momentum and continuing to build on our success.

“We know we have world-class talent, in both our students and our teaching staff, and we’re extremely excited that Sir Terry and Bill share our vision of how to grow LMA and to nurture the next generation of talented performers, musicians, film-makers, actors, and games designers.”

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