Andrew Wright has stepped down from the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP) board after nine years.
During his time as a member, he has championed innovation, sustainability and diversity across West Yorkshire and helped to secure a £1 billion landmark growth deal, which transformed the regional economy. Independent analysis by Arcadis shows that this deal has already delivered £12 in lasting benefits to Leeds City Region for every taxpayer £1 spent.
Shaping the region’s industrial strategy, Andrew has helped to forge a long-lasting bond between the private and public sectors, which has been crucial in providing West Yorkshire businesses with a voice.
Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin said: “It’s been a pleasure to have worked alongside Andrew since I became Mayor in 2021. For over nine years, he has been a remarkable advocate in supporting businesses throughout our region and has demonstrated invaluable leadership, particularly on the Manufacturing Task Force.”
“While his commitment and experience will be missed, we will continue to champion growth and drive inward investment to make West Yorkshire a better place to live, work and do business.”
Chair of the LEP, Mark Roberts said: “I’d like to thank Andrew for his dedication to the LEP Board as a private sector member over the past nine years.
“It’s been a privilege to work with him, and his contribution will no doubt leave a lasting legacy that will benefit the region for years to come.”
Andrew has also served as the private sector deputy chair of the Combined Authority’s Business, Economy and Innovation Committee, chaired the Business Innovation and Growth Panel, as well as the Mayor’s Manufacturing Task Force which aims to attract a greater pool of diverse, young talent and boost innovation across the region.
Outside the LEP, he is non-executive director of Covelya Group and non-executive chairman of AW Hainsworth and Sons Ltd.