What a pleasure to have taken part in our recent Future of GM board away day. Everyone shared their diverse experience and their enthusiasm for what we do in a stimulating afternoon of strategic thinking!
I’m thrilled to be part of the team, but I’m no stranger to Future of Greater Manchester. Having graduated from Leaders Plus in 2022 and become a mentor and nominator in 2023/24, I was already an ambassador. With over 20 years of leadership experience and a passion for driving meaningful change, I look forward to nurturing networks that empower individuals, build valuable cross-sector partnerships, and create lasting impact across Greater Manchester.
Welcoming new blood to the team and board brings fresh perspectives, renewed energy, and new skills—just what we need as we focus on strengthening partnerships, increasing support for our alumni, and further embedding Diverse Voices for place-makers across the region.
Thank you to outgoing board members Nicola Mathers and Kamil Sheikh, valued contributors from the beginning. Nicola will continue to champion us as CEO of big sister Future of London, and Kamil will stay on as Business Manager for both organisations.
Thanks also to gracious away day hosts JLL for an inspiring view, WELL-certified space and healthy food, for the refreshing welcome from Head of Office Jonathan Wiedemann – and for the intro from JLL mentor Georgina Rose!
Our four new board members are:
Simeon Anyalemechi, Digital Analyst at Salford University. Simeon is fascinated by for regional development and community. Mentoring shaped his own journey, and he’s committed to helping others succeed through Future of GM mentorship.
Jo Harrop, Founder and Director at PLACED. Jo is committed to better representation in placemaking and the built environment sector. She’s excited to support new talent through our Diverse Voices, Future Leaders, and GM Leaders Plus programmes.
Najwa Jawahar, Associate Director of Design Management at WSP. Najwa is a strong and effective advocate for representation and diversity and is already supporting the development of our Diverse Voices network.
Chris Wilkinson, Head of Research & Analysis at Homes England and a GM Leaders Plus alumnus. Chris is passionate about urban and community regeneration and is excited to support the growth of Future of Greater Manchester.
Existing board members:
- Suzanne Benson, National Head of Real Estate & Managing Director Manchester Office – Trowers & Hamlins
- Steph Everett, Head of Regeneration & Development – Rochdale Development Agency
- Dr Ricardo Gomez, Director – Hatch Urban Solutions
- Rebecca Heron, Strategic Director, Growth & Development – Manchester City Council
- Shefali Kapoor, Director of Communities – Manchester City Council
- Dave Kelly, Assistant Director, Public Sector Reform – Greater Manchester Combined Authority
- John Lumley, Director of Corporate Projects – L&Q
- Paul Richards, Deputy Chief Executive – Stockport Council
- Caroline Simpson, Chief Executive – Greater Manchester Combined Authority
- Lisa Taylor, Executive Director – Future of GM & Future of London
- Marc Watterson, Associate Director Town Planning – Arup
Read more about our team and purpose or find out how to get involved yourself!