IoD builds presence in Manchester with key appointments

The Institute of Directors has further bolstered its Manchester team with the appointment of three leading business figures.

Debbie Black, Alyson Chadwick and Richard Webster join the branch leadership team as ambassadors. They will drive connectivity with members, support learning and development and give a local voice to the Institute, while ensuring that Manchester’s issues are reflected in IoD national policy.

Debbie Black set up DGB Solicitors to specialise in advising directors and shareholders in private companies. As well as being a company director for more than 17 years in the legal sector, Debbie has 30 years’ experience as a litigator, with a focus on good governance, infrastructure and practical policies. She is a charity trustee and works with a number of North West charities.

Alyson Chadwick is the co-founder of Hedgehog, which provides consulting, business advisory and coaching services. She has more than 25 years’ experience of leading strategy, planning and transformation delivery. Following spells with LEK Consulting and Co-op Bank, Alyson became group strategy director for Co-op Group, and played a pivotal role in the rescue and relaunch of the Co-op. She is a trustee board member of The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation and a non-executive director of its retail board.

Richard Webster is a Chartered Civil Engineer and Chartered Director, with 30 years’ experience in the insurance and support services sectors. Following senior leadership roles with Euler Hermes, Morgan Sindall and AIG, he now works as a non-executive director and advisor. Richard is a Fellow of the IoD and has been a member for over 25 years. He is passionate about promoting the development of directors through IoD training and the Chartered Director qualification.

Debbie Francis OBE, chair of IoD Manchester, added: “I am delighted to welcome Debbie, Alyson and Richard to our fast-growing and vastly experienced Manchester team. By sharing best practice and knowledge, we will ensure that Manchester’s directors can navigate the challenges that lie ahead and prosper. With fragile confidence and unpredictable economic conditions, being well connected has never been more important.”

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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