John Lewis MD named LEP chair
The London-based managing director of John Lewis has been named as the chairman of the Greater Birmingham LEP. Andy Street will take the top role at the organisation from 1 May.
Street takes the helm from Bridget Blow, the organisation’s development board chairman.
He said: “The LEP development board has already outlined ambitious plans for the continuing economic rejuvenation of the region, and it will be a privilege to help deliver these plans.
“As a Midlander myself, I am personally excited by the prospect of using the skills I have developed as managing director of John Lewis for the benefit of the citizens of the region.”
The appointment comes after the announcement last month that John Lewis would be creating its first Birmingham store in the city's New Street station development.
The Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP is made up of nine local authorities including Birmingham, Solihull, Cannock, East Staffordshire, Tamworth, Lichfield, Wyre Forest, Bromsgrove and Redditch.
Despite the fact that Street is based in London, Blow said she thought he was “the ideal person” to take on the role.
She said: “I am delighted that Andy Street is taking on the role of chair. He has impeccable credentials and is a key player in the business community, and also has close local knowledge of the area, which will be invaluable assets as we drive forward.
“These are extremely exciting times – we have just been chosen to develop an enterprise zone, and I believe Andy is the ideal person to take the lead and oversee the LEP as it becomes a key player both nationally and on the global stage."
