Unity Enterprise appoints new enterprise manager

Leeds-based enterprise support organisation Unity Enterprise has appointed Catherine Allsop as enterprise manager to lead the next phase of growth for the not-for-profit business.

Catherine joins with more than six years of leadership experience in community building, education and social inclusion, having founded two community-focused businesses.

In her new role, she will lead the Unity Enterprise team and oversee the day-to-day operation of Unity Business Centre, Leeds Media Centre and Chapeltown Enterprise Centre. 

She will also support business tenants and act as an ambassador for the organisation at a local, regional and national level.

Catherine said: “I am looking forward to working with the team at Unity Enterprise and the wider community to support local entrepreneurs and business owners, and to help more people in the local area see business as a sustainable and rewarding career.

“UE is guided by its social purpose, with values which closely mirroring my own.

“I will be focussed on helping to strengthen its long-term sustainability and further expand its impact in the community.”

Part of Leeds-based housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise, Unity Enterprise provides 153 affordable business units to more than 140 businesses. 

Catherine’s appointment follows a strong period for the organisation, which was recently shortlisted for SME of the Year at the Northern Housing Awards.

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, added: “UE actively promotes entrepreneurship as a career to individuals who are not traditionally encouraged by the sector to follow this path.

“To help overcome the barriers they face, UE provides a range of advice and support services for people to set up their own business, become self-employed, receive training and education, and enter employment for the first time or after a prolonged period of economic inactivity.

“Catherine’s skillset and life experiences make her an ideal fit for this role.  

“We are delighted to have her onboard.”  

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