Former senior executive at BT to play major role in talks with Government over devolution

The York & North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership has announced the appointment of Helen Simpson OBE, as the new chair of its main board.

An experienced non-executive chair and director, she will replace David Kerfoot MBE. His term of office comes to an end next March. There will be a five month transition period before Mr Kerfoot retires to provide a stable transition in leadership.

In a statement, the LEP said: "With ambitions to build a greener, fairer and stronger economy, the LEP’s vision is for York and North Yorkshire to become England’s first carbon negative region and in doing so, reshape and strengthen the economy to recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic and build in greater opportunity for people who live, learn work and travel in the region.

"Helen’s role as chair will be to lead the board and work with partners to engage with government and realise these ambitions, including the proposed devolution deal negotiations for York and North Yorkshire, which could achieve significant investment and drive the region’s recovery and future growth in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"She will be joining a diverse group of board members who represent a wide range of private and public sector businesses and organisations from across the region including representatives from micro-businesses, SMEs, large corporates and education institutions."

Ms Simpson's non-executive experience follows a senior executive career with BT where she led digital growth businesses.

She currently Chairs Broadacres Housing Association, a provider of social housing, extra care and specialist provision in North Yorkshire and Trustees Unlimited, which works to improve charity governance.

Speaking at the conference, Mr Kerfoot MBE DL said: “Helen’s experience and credentials are exactly what is needed for the role.

"She is passionate about York and North Yorkshire, is a proven leader and has in-depth experience of working with government at the highest level.

"I am looking forward to working with her over the next few months and I have no doubt that she is an excellent choice to lead the LEP’s vision to build a greener, fairer and stronger economy for the region as we emerge from the pandemic.”

Speaking of her appointment, Ms Simpson said: “I am excited to get involved with the York & North Yorkshire LEP and look forward to meeting the LEP team, partners and businesses across the region as we work together to build the economy.

"We live in challenging times, so now more than ever, it will be a privilege to champion York and North Yorkshire. I am looking forward to using my skills and experience, with the LEP team, the Board and the public and private sector partners to help make a real difference.”

Since 2014, the LEP has invested a total of £220.8m to support business, infrastructure, and skills across York and North Yorkshire including housing, transport, flood alleviation, social inclusion and workforce development.