The D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, the body set up to promote economic growth across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, is looking for a new Chair.
Colin Walton, who has been the LEP’s Chair since the business-led partnership began in December 2010, has decided to step down following his retirement from the Derby-based trainmaker Bombardier earlier this year, where he was Chairman and Chief Country Representative in UK and Ireland.
During his time in charge, the LEP has set its strategy, agreed the Nottinghamshire Enterprise Zone, opened its Growing Places Fund to promote investment in stalled sites, prioritised transport improvements including the A453, the Midland Mainline and A38 junctions, developed a guide to help businesses to export and bid for skills and investment funds to support businesses.
Mr Walton said: “I am pleased to have helped D2N2 lay the foundations for future success. The LEP was started from scratch and has set itself high ambitions and I can look back on helping the partnership take its first steps.
“After retiring from my role at Bombardier, now is the right time to also step down from D2N2 and let a new Chair take the LEP forward. I would like to thank my fellow Board members for their support during the LEP’s formative period and wish them all the best for the future.”
George Cowcher, Chief Executive of the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Chamber of Commerce, paid tribute to Colin’s work. He said: “Colin dedicated a huge amount of time to D2N2 and provided the leadership needed to get the LEP up-and-running during an exceptionally busy time, when there were also significant, well-documented, issues facing Bombardier.
“We are now looking for a new Chair with the expertise and leadership to drive the partnership forward. Interested candidates should get in touch with me directly or look at the D2N2 website for more information.”
Applications close at noon on 27 July 2012. For more details, visit www.d2n2lep.org.
