Business leader chosen as next High Sheriff of Merseyside

A prominent business figure in Knowsley has been chosen as the next High Sheriff of Merseyside.

Lesley Martin-Wright is chief executive of Knowsley Chamber and also head of business growth and inward investment at Knowsley Council.

She was selected for the role by the Queen, in her capacity as Duke of Lancaster.

Ms Martin-Wright will assume the role from outgoing High Sheriff, Nigel Lanceley.

The chamber said that Lesley will keep her position as chief executive, but in a figurehead role.

She will also take a career break from her job at Knowsley Council.

Lesley was born in Northumberland, lived and worked in Singapore, then London, and moved to Merseyside in 1989.

She was commissioned as a Deputy Lieutenant for Merseyside in May 2014, and Honorary Colonel of 156 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps in 2017.

Lesley said: “It’s a huge honour and immense privilege to be chosen as High Sheriff of Merseyside in a most special year when we celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

“I am looking forward to meeting and engaging with the many charities and voluntary organisations who do such tremendous work, and the faith, ethnic, cultural and business communities across Merseyside.”

Cllr Graham Morgan, leader of Knowsley Council, said “This is a prestigious position and I wish Lesley the very best of luck. From everyone at Knowsley Council, congratulations Lesley.”

Alan Seeley, chairman of Knowsley Chamber, said the news will be welcomed and supported by the business community in Knowsley. She added: “I look
forward to continuing to work with Lesley and the chamber team in the exciting year ahead.”