Centre for Local Economic Strategies appoints new Board Members

Gill Steward, Chair of Trustees commented:

‘CLES is delighted that Denise and Niall are joining the Board. They have extensive experience and skills in economic development and both have a strong commitment and passion for the work of CLES. This is an important time for CLES –  our work on Local Wealth Building and new Municipalism is gaining influence across the UK and internationally, and the number of organisations developing different economic development models grounded in our research and supported by CLES grows day by day. Denise and Niall will play an important role in supporting the next step of the CLES journey.’

Denise Hyland has provided political leadership on the economy of the Royal Borough of Greenwich since 2007, when she was appointed as Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills. For four years, Denise served as Leader of the Council (May 2014 – May 2018). She has since returned as Cabinet Member for Economy, Skills and Apprenticeships.

During her time in Greenwich, Denise has developed a wealth of experience from a Local Authority which has faced great levels of change, change which is increasingly being experienced by other towns and cities outside London.

Commenting on her appointment, Denise Hyland, said:

‘I believe that all should benefit from the economic prosperity created and so the work of CLES is a good fit for me. I’m excited and look forward to making an active contribution as a trustee and non-executive director.’  

Niall Bolger has recently been appointed as the Chief Executive of London Borough of Hounslow and is due to commence this appointment in December 2018.

Niall has been involved in economic development, regeneration and environmental development throughout his career. He is the current chair of the South London Partnership’s Chief Executive’s Board, leading their sub-regional work on good growth, public service reform and infrastructure improvement and influencing regional and national government policy in these areas.

Commenting on his appointment, Niall Bolger, said:

‘I am passionate about ensuring inclusive economies put the needs of citizens first and believe that this is even more important now than it’s ever been. I believe that CLES contributes to these debates in practical ways and I would relish the opportunity of contributing to supporting this.’