Former Master Cutler gets enterprise group role

The so-called Lep is one of at least two being set up to drive economic growth in the region following the abolition of the regional development agency, Yorkshire Forward.

They are intended to be business-led partnerships between local authorities and representatives from the private sector.

Mr Newman served as Master Cutler last year and holds a number of high-profile positions in business, including several non-executive directorships and chairman roles.

He was a key figure in the creation of the Lep bid for the area, which was supported by Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, along with chambers in Doncaster, Barnsley and Rotherham.

Yuri Matischen, president of Sheffield Chamber, said: "We are delighted to see the appointment of James Newman. James comes from Sheffield which is important, but he has also just finished a very successful year as Master Cutler where his commitment to the region was clearly demonstrated along with the energy to back that up.

"What is also good is that James's experience crosses a lot of sectors and that is exactly what we need going forward. We realise the importance of focusing on the areas that will transform this region, and that means new sectors like digital, sport, and the green economy, as well as our traditional strengths in manufacturing.

"We really look forward to working with James and the Lep board. Steps have already been taken with the planned changes within the three chambers in South Yorkshire where together we will all become valuable contributors to this transformation, ensuring businesses' voices are being heard."

Further north, headhunters are putting together a list of candidates for the board of the Leeds City Region Lep. Backers hope to appoint a chairman soon.

Tom Riordan, the chief executive of Leeds City Council, said that while there is uncertainty about its powers and budget, those involved would be able to shape the future direction of the organisation. The Leeds and Sheffield bids were among the first to be accepted by the coalition Government. Submissions for partnerships in the Humber, York and North Yorkshire partnership were turned down.