News and Views

THE search is on for Cumbria’s private sector leaders to help support fellow businesses and shape the region’s economic recovery.

Cumbria LEP, the business-led partnership tasked with driving economic growth, is looking to recruit local leading figures to join its Board.

The appointments will come at a critical time for the Cumbrian economy, with businesses facing the highest inflation rates for 40 years at the same time as recovering from the effects of the pandemic.

Successful applicants will play an essential role in supporting business to the navigate the challenges of today, with the closing date for applications Friday 26 August 2022.

Cumbria LEP Chair Lord Inglewood said:

“The current economic challenges means that the Cumbria LEP Board has a vital role in representing the interests of our businesses and working with Government to help to respond to these. We’re calling on leaders who can bring real insight and business expertise, as well as a passion for Cumbria, to play a key role in our growth over the coming years.

“It is essential that the Board reflects the communities and businesses that we serve; geographically, sectorally and size-wise. We therefore really want to hear from business leaders who feel that they can add something to our Board. We are also committed to increasing female Board representation and as such I would encourage our female leaders to put themselves forward.”

The LEP is looking for applicants:

• To have had significant experience and a successful track record as an owner or senior executive in a business operating in the LEP area;
• To demonstrate strategic leadership and corporate governance skills to operate at Board level;
• A genuine passion and commitment to work in the best interests of Cumbria and its economy.

Applications from women are particularly encouraged, to address the commitment to have 50% female Board members by 2023. Whilst, in order to represent the Cumbria’s diverse economy, the LEP is keen to ensure representations from key sectors, with leaders from advanced manufacturing; the visitor economy and professional services strongly encouraged to apply.

How to apply

The roles are likely to require a time commitment of one day per month. Board appointments are for a three-year term, with the option for re-appointment for a further three-year period.

Applicants wishing to put themselves forward as a private sector Board member should provide a current CV with a covering letter outlining their skills and qualities that they can bring to the LEP and why they are interested in joining the Board. Applicants need to be actively involved in a Cumbrian business.

Applications, should be marked ‘Confidential – Governance Appointments’ and emailed to Jo Lappin, Chief Executive at jo.lappin@thecumbrialep.co.uk.

The closing date for applications is 5.00pm on Friday 26 August 2022.