New interim chief executive appointed by D2N2 LEP

The D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership has appointed Will Morlidge as its interim chief executive.

Will, currently D2N2’s head of strategy and policy, has been with the LEP since 2020, leading its economic and growth strategy, as well as approach to changes in Government policy,

In the role, he has worked with public and private sector stakeholders and partner organisations across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Sajeeda Rose, the LEP's current chief executive, is leaving to take up a new role as corporate director for growth and city development at Nottingham City Council.

Role of D2N2 LEP's new interim chief executive

The interim chief executive will lead the LEP through the next six months to ensure continuity and pace during the ongoing national LEP review and build on the Economic Growth and Recovery Plan, which sets out the LEP’s vision for the region, focusing on opportunities in clean growth and decarbonisation, as well as the continued investment to support productivity and inclusive connectivity.

Will said: "I am delighted to be appointed as the D2N2 LEP’s new interim chief executive.

“There is an incredible energy around the region, and I am really keen to work with our private, public and academic partners to drive the growth programme forward.

“I am looking forward to working with the LEP board and executive team to ensure we can continue to create a sustainable and inclusive economy for everyone.”

He will take up the post on 1 August and work with Sajeeda until she leaves at the end of August.

D2N2 LEP chair Elizabeth Fagan CBE added: “I would like to thank Sajeeda for her leadership and support over the last three years.

“I wish her continued success in her new role. I would like to congratulate Will and look forward to working with him on the LEP's next phase of development, and supporting our public and private sector partner organisations in driving the economic growth of the D2N2 region.”