Growth Hub Board gets new leadership

Today, the South East Midlands Enterprise Partnership (SEMLEP) appoints a new Chair and Deputy Chair to the Growth Hub Board to oversee the delivery of exceptional business support in the South East Midlands.

Local business owner and SEMLEP Board member, Rachel Mallows MBE DL takes on the role of Growth Hub Board Chair, accompanied by new Deputy Chair David Sheridan, an existing Growth Hub Board member and business owner.

With 30 years’ experience in personal development and business support, Rachel is perfectly placed to take on the role. From delivering bespoke support to food and drink manufacturers in the region to leading the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards, Rachel continues to create and celebrate success for local businesses.

In her role as Growth Hub Board Chair, Rachel will be responsible for championing local business needs, ensuring that the support delivered through the Growth Hub is aligned to the challenges of local businesses. Rachel has also been appointed SME Champion on the SEMLEP Board, a dedicated role to ensure that the voices of small businesses are heard.

Talking about her appointment, Rachel said, “‘I am absolutely thrilled to take on this strategic role at a time when the value of SMEs in our economy is certainly under the spotlight. The Growth Hub has built an impressive track record of support, particularly during the pandemic, and I very much look forward to the months ahead.”

David Sheridan first joined the Growth Hub Board in 2018. With a breadth of experience working with SMEs and scale-up businesses, and as a business owner himself, David will continue to use his insight to benefit businesses in the region, while championing scale-ups.

In his role as Deputy Chair, David will support Rachel to ensure the successful delivery of business support in the region.

David commented, “Despite challenges in several fields, companies in SEMLEP area have great opportunities to successfully expand. With our universities, good infrastructure and lower costs than London, it is our role in the Growth Hub to help these firms develop even further. A very exciting period lies ahead.”

Vicky Hlomuka, Growth Hub Manager, adds. “Having worked in partnership with Rachel and David for many years now, I’m excited about the unique insights they’ll add to the Growth Hub Board. Together, I believe we can continue to support our fantastic community of driven businesses.”

For more information about the business support available through SEMLEP’s Growth Hub, visit: www.semlepgrowthhub.com