Humber LEP chair takes on important deputy role in new entity
HUMBER Local Enterprise Partnership chairman Stephen Parnaby has been appointed as James Newman’s deputy in the new Hull and East Yorkshire entity.
It follows an independent selection process led by Arco boss Thomas Martin, chair of the Hull and East Riding Business Engagement Board, which included leaders of both local authorities.
Mr Parnaby, who like Mr Newman has been awarded the OBE, had succeeded Lord Haskins in controversial circumstances early last year.
The recruitment for a permanent successor was canned at final interview stage, with the two other candidates dismissed as he was made interim leader. It will cease to be on March 31, with an April1 launch of the new LEP.
Mr Parnaby, former leader of East Riding Council, said: “I am delighted to be asked to contribute to the new Hull and East Yorkshire LEP in the position as deputy chair. Having discussed the role with the newly appointed chair, James Newman, I am confident we can work together to make the new LEP a real force in the area and on the regional and national stage.
“James has a huge experience of LEPS as a former chair of the Sheffield City Region LEP and coupled with my local knowledge, will create the right balance going forward. I will be working with James on the formation of the new LEP and ensuring a smooth transition and closure of the Humber LEP.”
Mr Newman had flagged up the fact his knowledge of Hull and East
Yorkshire was lacking when he described himself as the leftfield candidate in an interview with Business Live last week. This partnership at the helm of the partnership will be seen as bridging that.
Mr Newman said: “I am delighted that Stephen has accepted the invitation to become the deputy chair.
“His vast experience as both a political leader in the region as well as being the current chair of the Humber LEP, will be invaluable to me as I take up my new role and get to know the region better over the next few months.
“There will inevitably be a transition period between the old and the new LEPS, to which Stephen will be able to make a significant contribution.
“Stephen’s role will also be important in making sure we continue the excellent work of the current Humber LEP and work closely with our colleagues across the Humber Estuary, where our combined assets and expertise are of national importance.”