CO2Sense will not fill departing chief’s role

Ms Pollard announced her resignation from the Leeds-based not-for-profit company earlier in the week. CO2Sense does not intend to replace Ms Pollard as CEO and will instead operate under a management team structure, led by the company’s existing directors, Jon Oliver and Dr Stephen Brown.

Mr Pollard has resigned to take on a new role as chief operating officer of a property investment company based in Manchester.

CO2Sense said she will start an immediate handover with the management team and leave at a time that is appropriate for both parties.

Ms Pollard has been CEO of CO2Sense since 2008 and led the company through its transition from a subsidiary of Yorkshire Forward to an independent community interest company.

Barry Dodd, chairman of CO2Sense, said: “All of CO2Sense would like to thank Joanne for her hard work and commitment over the past four years. Joanne was instrumental in ensuring the continuation of CO2Sense following the abolition of Yorkshire Forward.”

In accordance with government policy, all regional development agencies closed last year.

Mr Dodd added: “CO2Sense has an exciting future ahead of it. We are at the forefront of transformational projects like carbon capture and storage and working with some fantastic clients including the NHS, Leeds City Council, Sheffield University and Nestle.

“I am confident the management team and staff will build upon the success Joanne has created, rise to the challenges ahead and continue to develop the business to support companies and projects across the country.”

Ms Pollard said: “I am extremely proud of what CO2Sense and its employees have achieved during my time as CEO. In the past five years, we have provided support to more than 500 businesses, as well as investing over £11m in low carbon and renewable energy projects.

“I leave knowing that CO2Sense is in good hands and that it will continue to make a positive difference to many organisations and communities across Yorkshire and beyond.”