Marches LEP begins the hunt for a new chair
THE Marches Local Enterprise Partnership has begun the search for a new chairman, with the body stipulating the right person must have a “significant reputation and influence” at the highest level.
The LEP, tasked with spearheading the economic development of Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, is searching for a new chairperson to provide strategic private sector leadership, oversee the development of the partnership and delivery of its growth plans.
Founding chairman, Dr Geoffrey Davies, was appointed in 2011 for a two-year term which expires next month. He will remain on the LEP board for a further year.
LEP executive officer Jacqui Casey said the LEP board had carefully considered the qualities, attributes and key skills required to take the partnership into its next stage.
“We are now inviting applications for the position of chair of the Marches LEP from suitable candidates and it is intended that the new chairperson will be in place within a matter of weeks,” she said.
“This is an exciting opportunity for an individual with a track record in the private sector to make a considerable contribution to this partnership which is now moving into a mature phase, developing an independent office and restructuring to maximise capacity to deliver, including recruitment of appropriate staff.
“The LEP chair provides leadership in the delivery of the partnership’s vision, strategic objectives, targets, outputs and performance, champions the LEP at national, regional and local level and represents the partnership at high profile events.”
Applicants are required to have a minimum of 15 years experience in a senior managerial role in the private sector and previous experience of partnership working.
Ms Casey added: “The LEP board wishes to appoint an individual with good links with national government and key decision makers and someone with a strong political acumen to promote the Marches at the highest level.”
An affiliation with the Marches is also a requirement for the role, although candidates do not necessarily have to be resident or have a business in the region.
Dr Davies said: “I’m delighted with the progress that the LEP has made over my term of office. The Marches LEP was in the first tranche of 24 LEPs to be approved by the Government, joining some of the country’s urban powerhouses in early work to help rebalance the economy in favour of the private sector.
“It has been my pleasure to have been at the forefront of this work, supported by an excellent business-led board working in partnership with the local authorities of Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin.”
