Jennings to quit Land Securities to take up Chamber presidency

He said his departure from Land Securities will enable him to commit to the role at an important time for Leeds, with the Leeds BID progressing, the HS2 and HS3 rail infrastructure projects on the horizon and a possible bid for the 2023 European Capital of Culture under discussion.

Mr Jennings is credited with overseeing the successful opening of Trinity Leeds and getting planning permission for the expansion of White Rose Shopping Centre.

“With these major landmarks reached I feel that the time is right to hand over the reins,” he said. “In October I accepted the invitation to become the next President of Leeds Chamber of Commerce and by leaving Land Securities at the end of the current financial year in March, I will be able to fully commit myself to this role.”

Ahead of the general election and talk of devolved powers for big cities, Mr Jennings said he sees the Chamber playing a leading role in articulating the business voice in Leeds.

Scott Parsons, retail managing director at Land Securities, said: “Gerald has been a real champion and ambassador for Land Securities in Leeds. We are sorry to see him move on, but pleased that we will have the opportunity to maintain a relationship with him through the Chamber and his other activities in the city.”