Fresh faces on board as Marketing Leeds prepares for ‘step change’

Chairman Andy Clarke, the chief executive of Asda, said the nine non-executive director appointments “signify a real step change” for the public-private body.

They are Wayne Bowser, business development director at HSBC, Alastair Da Costa, the Hong Kong-based managing partner of DLA Piper’s Asia Pacific practice, Sarah Dunwell, the catering and social entrepreneur, Professor John Fisher, the medical technology expert from Leeds University, Nigel Foster, president of the Leeds Chamber of Commerce, Professor Susan Price, Vice Chancellor of Leeds Metropolitan University, James Rogers, assistant chief executive at Leeds City Council and councillors Andrew Carter and Richard Lewis.

They will support the chairman and his deputy, Roger Marsh, and the incoming CEO Lurene Joseph, who starts work on April 30.

Mr Clarke said: “The board recognises the importance of putting Leeds on the map and they will play a pivotal role in guiding the strategy of the broader Marketing Leeds as it expands with a wider, integrated remit to attract jobs, investment and visitors to the city.

“The appointment of senior figures across a range of public and private sector organisations further consolidates Marketing Leeds’ links with the business community.

“The board’s leadership, expertise and experience will be critical in ensuring the city capitalises on what it does best and I am looking forward to working with them.”

The departing board members were Martin Holmes, marketing director at Leeds University, Gary Lumby, the former President of Leeds Chamber of Commerce, Dirk Mischendal, managing director of Logistik, Jean Dent, the interim chief executive, and Nigel McLea, the former chair- man.

A spokeswoman said the board represents “some of the key sectors in Leeds, including academia, legal, banking and social enterprise as well Leeds City Council”.

She added: “The board will oversee a series of programmes and initiatives as Marketing Leeds widens its focus to drive economic growth in the city and ensure Leeds achieves its ambition to be the best city in the UK.”

Ms Joseph joins after a long search to find a replacement for Deborah Green.