Yorkshire Forward non-executive directors continuing to serve on the board

26/07/2010

Mark Prisk, Minister for Business, today announced continued terms of appointment to the Board of Yorkshire Forward.

Mark Lovell, Cllr Mark Kirk and Linda Pollard OBE JP DL will serve from 14 December until the RDA closes.

The announcement will help ensure that the Regional Development Agency retains valuable industry and organisational knowledge as it continues with a multi-million pound programme of work throughout 2010/11.

The Minister commented:
“As we move toward a new framework for our regional economies, it is important that the development agencies are equipped with the leadership to ensure the transition period is a smooth one. 

“The skills and experience of these board members will be a valuable asset during this time and I hope they will continue to work with us to ensure an efficient evolutionary process.”

Terry Hodgkinson Yorkshire Forward Chairman said:
 “I am pleased to see the re-appointment of Cllr Mark Kirk and Mark Lovell to the Yorkshire Forward Board and welcome the extension of service for Linda Pollard.

“Our Board Members understand the Yorkshire and Humber picture, aren’t afraid of making tough decisions that will support Yorkshire and Humber’s continued economic growth and can provide much needed support to our staff during this very difficult time of closure.

“Their organisational knowledge, industry expertise and leadership will be invaluable in what is an incredibly challenging time for the organisation and the wider region.”

Notes to Editors

For further information or to arrange an interview with Yorkshire Forward, please contact Leona Thompson, Senior Press Manager on 0113 3949589 or email Leona.thompson@yorkshire-forward.com

Linda Pollard OBE JP DL is Deputy Chair of Yorkshire Forward, a role in which she takes the lead in skills, tourism and key account management. Linda started her first business at the age of 23 and sold her last over 8 years ago. Now she devotes most of her time to the public sector, and is Chair of Leeds NHS Primary Care Trust. She is also the Pro-Chancellor and Chair elect of the University of Leeds, as well as the regional Chair for Coutts Bank Plc.

Mark Lovell is the executive chairman of A4e Ltd. He is a dynamic, successful entrepreneur and business leader focused on high-growth business in global public service markets. His company, which has grown from start-up 15 years ago to a £100m turnover business, has received a number of accolades.

Cllr Mark Kirk is responsible for shaping and implementing Yorkshire Forward’s policies for the environment, sustainability and rural renaissance. He is the leader of North Lincolnshire Council and chair of the Regional Transport Advisory Board. Mark is also a director of Urban Renaissance in the Humber region, chairs the local ethnic community meetings and is a founder member of the Crosby Community Association.