The D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has appointed Clare James MBE, Managing Director of East Midlands Airport, part of the Manchester Airports Group (MAG) to its board of directors.
Following an open and transparent selection process, Clare has been appointed as a new private-sector board member and will join the LEP from January 2021.
Before being appointed Managing Director in July 2020, Clare held the position of Operational Excellence Director at MAG, responsible for creating centres of excellence in key functions that underpin the efficient operation of an airport, such as business strategy, security procedures, IT and business resilience.
Before entering the private sector in August 2013, Clare had a distinguished career in the Royal Air Force and completed several active tours in the UK and abroad. Clare was awarded an MBE for services to the Royal Air Force in 2007.
Talking about her appointment Clare, said: “I’m delighted to join the D2N2 LEP Board and look forward to working with fellow Board members to drive forward the ambitions of the region. The East Midlands has so much to offer businesses and communities alike and I’m committed to making sure we capitalise on this and help the region punch above its weight”
“As the region’s global gateway for people and products, East Midlands Airport sits at the heart of the East Midlands and with the potential to secure Freeport designation, it is an incredibly exciting time to be doing business in this area.
“Of course, the future holds its challenges and I know first-hand the impact COVID-19 has had on industry. I am particularly interested in doing what I can in my new position to support the LEP’s work on the regional recovery.”
D2N2 LEP Chair, Elizabeth Fagan CBE added: ” We are delighted to welcome Clare to our board of directors. This is an exciting time to be joining the D2N2 LEP with the recent launch of our recovery and growth strategy at our AGM last week.
“Clare brings significant strategic leadership expertise with her role at East Midlands Airport and from her time serving with the RAF. She has demonstrated a real commitment to supporting the region’s ambitions for economic growth, especially in the context of our bid for the East Midlands Freeport.
