Recently, I joined the Board of Directors at the Greater Lincolnshire LEP and took on the role of Chair for the LEP's Energy Council. What surprised me the most is the diverse range of people involved, representing various sectors and seniority levels. It's inspiring to be surrounded by so many influential individuals.

Equally surprising was the level of freedom given to the Energy Council in shaping our approach and conduct for serving Greater Lincolnshire. This trust and autonomy is refreshing. 
 
My primary motivation for joining the LEP is to ensure that everyone can access the fantastic opportunities I was fortunate to have here. Although not born in Lincolnshire, I grew up here and have enjoyed a fulfilling life. I want people to know that personal and career growth options exist in Greater Lincolnshire without the need to relocate to larger cities. 
 
Approaching the LEP as a newcomer brings valuable fresh perspectives, unbound by past practices. This allows me to explore innovative approaches and overcome challenges creatively. 
 
My career journey began as an Advanced Technical Support Apprentice at Siemens Energy, where I worked my way up to become Sustainability Manager with a leadership role focused on delivering our Climate Neutral Commitment.  
 
My apprenticeship allowed me to grow in the company, providing me with both practical experience and independence – with the bonus of being able to earn while studying. It’s continued to provide me with a practical foundation for my career and I am happy to see that the LEP champions apprenticeships as much as I do.  
 
Having worked in various roles at the company, I gained hands-on experience, project management, and strategy skills, alongside deepening my understanding of the energy sector. I hope that this knowledge will be put to good use and create some value during my time on the board and as Chair of the Energy Council.  
 
My focus is to monitor trends in the energy sector and support businesses through these changes, particularly in relation to sustainability. Energy underpins all the LEP priorities and is a vital element to grow and decarbonise agriculture, healthcare, and the visitor economy specifically. I am excited to support the Lincolnshire and the LEP’s priorities by focusing on energy usage and sustainability going forward.  
 
My aspiration for Greater Lincolnshire is to create a place where people can start businesses, grow in their careers, buy their first homes, build a family and lead fulfilling lives. It's essential for the area to continuously transform and adapt to the community's needs, making it a place people love and never want to leave.  
 
Living in Lincolnshire, I have come to cherish the warmth and friendliness of the people, something I feel is truly special and unique to this area. It’s important to me that people not only live in Lincolnshire, but that it delivers for its people. 
 
I look forward to spending my time at the LEP driving forward affordable and reliable energy for Greater Lincolnshire and doing my best to support the people who live here.