New boss at tourism organisation

York’s city promotion agency Make It York has appointed a new managing director, a week after a new strategy was revealed for the tourism and business organisation.

Sarah Loftus will join the organisation in December from the Lincoln Business Improvement Group (BIG), where she is currently chief executive.

She will be tasked with leading the delivery of the organisation’s refreshed and innovative tourism strategy, as well as driving forward the city’s cultural strategy, following a renegotiation of its contract with the City of York council which saw the organisation’s remit changed, with the council resuming responsibility for inward investment and economic development.

Loftus, has previously held the positions of corporate director for economic growth at Trafford Council and service director for economic growth and strategic housing for Wakefield Council, as well as a series of roles during her six years working for Yorkshire Forward culminating in the role of assistant director for the Humber Region in 2008/9.

Greg Dyke, chair of Make It York said: “We are delighted that Sarah is joining the Make It York team. She has extensive experience in both the private and public sectors and she has lived in York part time for some years so she knows the city well. Sarah will also bring a wealth of invaluable experience from the work she has done in Lincoln, Wakefield and Humberside. We look forward to Sarah coming on board later this year and helping us to shape what is set to be an exciting future for York’s post-covid recovery.”

Loftus added: “I believe I have achieved widespread professional recognition for my work in place management, economic development, regeneration, housing and cultural and community development. Joining Make It York is a challenge I very much look forward to and I believe I can bring innovative solutions to help create a strong and effective future for York.”