IoD appoints Sarah Waddington as branch chair

The Institute of Directors (IoD) has appointed Sarah Waddington CBE to lead its North East (North) branch.

The IoD supports members to become better directors. Sarah will work alongside a team of branch ambassadors to provide connections, professional development opportunities and an influential lobbying voice in the Newcastle, Tyneside and Northumberland area.

Sarah is managing director of Newcastle-based management consultancy Astute.Work. She is an experienced PR and management consultant who helps organisations to articulate their purpose and optimise performance.

Sarah was awarded a CBE in June 2021 for services to public relations and the voluntary sectors. She has built a reputation as a champion of ethics, diversity and inclusivity, and is a strong advocate of accountable leadership and women in business.

Sarah was a trustee of the Sunshine Fund for four years, which supports children with disabilities. She is also a non-executive director for technology marketing and PR agency Resonance.

Sarah succeeds Ammar Mirza CBE, who steps down after two years as branch chair.

Sarah said: “I am passionate about helping individuals to become the best they can be, regardless of their background. These values align with those of the IoD, which exists to create better directors, a better economy and a better world. I’m honoured to take on the role of branch chair and can’t wait to help members to develop and prosper.

“I’d like to thank Ammar for his hard work and leadership during his tenure – he is an incredibly hard act to follow.”

Delroy Beverley, chair of IoD Yorkshire and North East, added: “Sarah is an outstanding individual and we’re delighted that she is joining us. She will be the standard bearer for local directors, providing support and inspiration that will help them to develop professionally, forge fresh connections and influence the business agenda.”

Better directors for a better world

The IoD supports directors and business leaders across the UK and beyond to learn, network and build successful, responsible businesses.
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