Barry Leahey MBE, President of Playdale Playgrounds, and a vocal advocate for SMEs and Manufacturer’s, has been successfully appointed to join the Cumbrian Economic Growth Board, a significant step towards shaping the economic future of Cumbria.
The Cumbrian Economic Growth Board will succeed the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (CLEP) and will be made up of local business leaders selected to actively participate in regional decision-making, playing a pivotal role in shaping Cumbria’s future.
David Beeby, the new chairman of the board said: “It is an exciting time ahead as we help to develop and deliver an Economic Strategy for the area whilst continuing to deliver a wide range of programmes that assist businesses with skills development, business improvement and productivity issues.”
This role will provide a voice for a diverse array of businesses and organisations across Cumbrian, in supporting inclusive economic growth, investing in skills, and promoting Cumbria as a great place to live, work, and do business.
Mr Leahey has a history of promoting the well-being of Cumbria, its residents, the environment, and its economy. His leadership and expertise have been lauded through various prestigious accolades, notably securing the Runner-Up spot for the Great Britain Business Leader of the Year in 2023. His contributions were also acknowledged with the Board of Trade Award (BOFTA) from the Department of International Trade in 2019, and the esteemed MBE for services to UK Trade and Exports from Her Majesty the Queen in 2017.
In recognition of his profound dedication to academia and entrepreneurial pursuits, Mr Leahey was appointed Professor of Practice at the University of Cumbria in 2021. Additionally, he was bestowed with the title of Honorary Professorial Fellow of Entrepreneurship & Strategy at Lancaster University in 2019. Mr Leahey is also a frequent contributor to media dialogues, where he imparts invaluable insights on critical subjects like Brexit, exporting, and advanced manufacturing, with a view to disseminate knowledge and empower audiences.
On his appointment Mr Leahey said, “I am truly honoured and excited to contribute to the Cumbrian Economic Growth Board, playing a part in shaping the future of Cumbria’s economic landscape as part of this newly formed organisation.”
Mr Leahey’s appointment to the Cumbrian Economic Growth Board is a testament to his unwavering commitment to driving positive change and fostering growth within the region.
To view our wide variety of commercial playground equipment please visit http://www.playdale.co.uk
