Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership is delighted to announce that local businessman Tim Wates has been appointed chairman of its board.  Mr Wates, who has served as vice-chairman since 2011, succeeds John Peel, OBE as of 22 May 2014. 

As chairman, Tim will be responsible for driving the LEP’s strategic objectives to transform the region’s business and economic performance through business infrastructure investment, international trade and entrepreneurship programmes.

Tim commenced his career with Cazenove & Co. in the City of London, subsequently joining Wates Group, where his roles have included finance director of Elmore Plant Hire Services and managing director of Wates Developments. He is now a director of Wates Group, chairman of the Wates Family Council and chairman of Wates Developments.  He is a trustee of several of the Wates philanthropic foundations and holds an MBA from Judge Business School, University of Cambridge. Earlier this year, he was appointed a UK Business Ambassador by the Prime Minister.

Speaking of his appointment Tim said: “I am delighted to become chairman of Coast to Capital LEP as we continue critical negotiations with Government on future investment in our region’s transport, flood defences, housing, workforce, skills and communities.  The UK relies on the region to be one of the largest contributors to the national economy outside of central London and investment in the region is vital for its successful future performance.  With the crucial support of Government, we will be in a winning position to achieve our objectives as set out in our growth plan.”

Ron Crank chief executive, Coast to Capital said: “Following a rigorous recruitment process, we are privileged to have Tim as our new chairman. As vice chairman, he has already been instrumental in driving forward our growth plans and his business expertise and knowledge of partnership working across the public and private sectors is a huge asset.  

I would also like to pay tribute to our outgoing chairman John Peel OBE. His leadership, talent and expertise have been tremendously beneficial to the LEP in his time as chairman and we are pleased to have his continued involvement as a Director of the Board.”