The Institute of Directors (IoD) has appointed Natalie Sykes as regional director for the East Midlands.
Taking over from Ron Lynch, who ends a 12-year stint as regional director to take on a national role as the IoD’s university and student engagement director, where he will forge closer links between education, academia and business.
Natalie said the East Midlands appointment to her existing role as regional director for Yorkshire and the North East.
A qualified interior architect, Natalie spent more than two decades working across the UK, Europe and Africa on projects for private owners, national and international hotel groups before moving into management consultancy within the real estate sector.
She served as a trustee and board director at the Grade II Thackray Medical Museum, Leeds and was the youngest ever chairman of regeneration charity the Groundwork Federation, where she served for eight years.
In his new role, Ron Lynch will develop relationships with universities and higher education institutions while raising the profile of IoD student membership, with the aim of contributing to young entrepreneurs’ understanding of good governance, the role of directors and boards and the world of work.
Garry Smith, regional chairman, IoD East Midlands, said: "Ron will be missed in the East Midlands where he has been the face of the IoD and a tremendous asset in raising our profile within the business community and local government.
"I’m glad the IoD is retaining his skills and experience and that his excellent work developing links with universities and students will continue.
"Natalie has proven herself to be an excellent leader in Yorkshire and the North East and I know that the region is in safe hands with some exciting developments to come."
Natalie said: "As someone who is passionate about nurturing the skilled individuals of the future, I’m delighted that Ron has taken on this important role and I look forward to working with him as we develop IoD foundation courses and MBA degree apprenticeships.
"The IoD has a new structure that will enable us to decentralise and get even closer to members.
"At the same time, I’ll be fighting hard to ensure that issues affecting East Midlands businesses are heard in the corridors of power through our powerful Policy Voice programme, which gets your voice heard through monthly surveys on key business issues."
