The new interim chair of the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP) Board has outlined his goal of “encouraging entrepreneurship and building digital skills”.
Mark Roberts, is the co-founder of online retailer Beer Hawk and has worked within several global blue-chip companies at senior executive level, has succeeded Sir Roger Marsh, who stepped down as chair at the completion of his tenure.
Roberts has been a member of the LEP Board since June 2019 and has served as deputy chair since March 2020.
The LEP has also formally welcomed 24 new members who have joined to represent private sector business in the region and will work within various Combined Authority committees.
Mark Roberts said: “The depth of expertise within the LEP Board means we are in a very strong position to continue to support business across our region and strengthen economic growth.
“I’m extremely passionate about encouraging entrepreneurship and building digital skills and will continue this focus in my new position.
“I’m also delighted that our LEP community has been further strengthened by 24 new members who represent the private sector. To have such a strong representation from a wide range of industries will significantly enhance our ability to support and work with business in the region.”
The new members have been drawn from various businesses and organisations in the region, including the professional services sector, engineering, the digital and textiles sectors, as well as manufacturing and the creative sectors.
Professor Shirley Congdon, the vice-chancellor of the University of Bradford, has also has taken up the role of deputy chair of the LEP’s Employment and Skills Committee.