Partner Article

NGI gets new permanent head

NewcastleGateshead Initiative has confirmed Sarah Stewart as chief executive, a role she has been performing since May 2010 when she was appointed as interim head of the organisation.

Commenting on her permanent appointment she said, “I am delighted to be offered the role of chief executive, having thoroughly enjoyed working with the NewcastleGateshead Initiative team over the last ten months.

“Despite the difficult times for tourism in recent months, NewcastleGateshead Initiative is now in a very strong position, having secured continued support both from Gateshead and Newcastle Councils and from our member companies. We also have a busy year planned for 2011.

“Major projects for the year ahead include maximising the huge tourism opportunities for the ‘twin cities’ from the Olympics, continued support for the International Conference Centre bid and developing a place brand for NewcastleGateshead to help further bolster our positive reputation both nationally and internationally.”

Sarah is a highly experienced marketing professional with over 25 years experience of leading public and private sector partnership initiatives, most recently as Interim Director with Newcastle Science City. She has worked with several of the UK’s best known companies including Proctor & Gamble, PriceWaterhouse Coopers, the Sage Group Plc, Greggs Plc and Shell International and has held several non-executive roles with regional organisations including the International Centre for Life, Beamish Museum Development Trust, Port of Tyne Authority, Northern Investors Company Plc and Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

NewcastleGateshead Initiative chairman Jamie Martin said, “I am delighted to confirm Sarah’s appointment as permanent chief executive. While tourism structures and funding in the region has seen significant changes in recent months, NewcastleGateshead Initiative has a clear focus on our role in promoting NewcastleGateshead as a place to work, learn, live and visit. We have started 2011 in a very strong position, with a much strengthened network of partners and supporters, which have grown from 120 to over 165 companies in just four years. And we will continue to build on these strengths, under Sarah’s leadership, to further raise the profile of NewcastleGateshead as a dynamic, cultural and vibrant destination.”

David Faulkner, Leader of Newcastle City Council said, “Sarah’s appointment will mean NewcastleGateshead Initiative will continue to successfully deliver economic and cultural benefits to our city. Sarah has done a great job over the last ten months and I look forward to continuing to work with her and NewcastleGateshead Initiative in the future.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .