UK: Humber LEP to Name CEO

The Humber LEP is to recruit a Chief Executive following the launch of its five-year plan for growth that focuses on realising the potential of the Humber Estuary.

The move to recruit a Chief Executive builds on momentum over the last year as the Humber LEP has secured the largest Enterprise Zone in the country, £30m of Regional Growth Funding and an £8m business loan fund to unlock development projects.

The post is one of several appointments that will be made over the next few months as the LEP increases its capacity in order to implement its plans and take on additional responsibilities.

Earlier this month the Chancellor announced plans in the Autumn Statement to give LEPs control of devolved growth funding, the ability to set priorities for European funding, and a new strategic role in skills policy. Further developments are expected in the Government’s response to the Heseltine Review, which proposed an expanded role for LEPs, in the spring.

The LEP is also working closely with the Humber local authorities on the development of a City Deal proposal, which would see more Whitehall powers and funding devolved to the local area.

 Lord Haskins, Chairman of the Humber LEP, said:

 “The role of LEPs is expanding as the Government places increasing trust in them, and the successful ones develop a growing arsenal of tools and funding to support their local economies. We need to grow our own capacity as well, whilst remaining small and nimble, in order to manage all of these functions. The new Chief Executive role will be pivotal in providing leadership and bringing together the talent and assets that already exist across the Humber to drive forward our ambitious programme.”

Recruitment for the Chief Executive post is underway now, managed by local recruitment specialists Emmerson Kitney. Other posts will be advertised early in the New Year.

[mappress]

Press release, December 20, 2012; Image: flirckr