Dorset LEP appoints new chair

Cecilia Bufton (pictured) has been named as the new chair of the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) board.

Ms Bufton brings a wealth of private sector experience to the board having worked for a range of businesses including multinationals and SMEs. She has enjoyed a successful 30-year career, in senior roles with responsibility for the strategic direction and financial performance of businesses in the UK and globally.

Her main focus has been in strategic business development in the health and care sectors, most recently involved in developing innovative, digital technology enabled products and services that help change the way healthcare is delivered.

‘I am delighted to be taking on the role of chair at Dorset LEP,’ she said.

‘The impact of Dorset LEP’s investments, COVID-19 recovery initiatives, business engagement and careers education activities are being felt across the region and I look forward to representing businesses, using my expertise and experience to help drive forward this work.

‘I take on the role of chair as we face some of the biggest challenges in business, in education and in our communities. Dorset LEP already has an excellent reputation for collaborative working and I accept the mantle with confidence that Dorset LEP and our partners really can make a difference for Dorset’s people, and as a place.’

Deputy chair, Sara Uzzell, added: ‘Cecilia joins Dorset LEP at an important time for our region’s recovery. I am confident that her expertise will further enable Dorset LEP to make the most of future opportunities, drive productivity and attract investment into the area. On behalf of Dorset LEP and our stakeholders, I wish to thank former Chair of the Board, Jim Stewart, for his vision, leadership and commitment.’

Photo Credit – Supplied/ Fietzfotos (Pixabay)