People are needed to put themselves forward as candidates for the new Cumbrian branch chairman of the Institute of Directors in the North West.

Current chairman Chris Ward’s will step down in February after his two-year tenure comes to an end.

The organisation is asking candidates with senior leadership experience to come forward.

The institute said it wants applicants who will be a strong advocate for the IoD North West and who can continue to build and sustain an active committee.

Working alongside the regional team to support a growing membership base of business leaders, the candidate will promote excellent governance and responsible business practices, whilst having a great understanding of Cumbria and relevant issues in the North West.

Mr Ward said: “As chair of the Cumbria branch, I have thoroughly enjoyed promoting the organisation within the regional business community.

"As a representative of the institute on the Cumbria LEP Private Sector Advisory Panel, I have built relationships with key local organisations such as the University of Cumbria, local councils and MPs, local businesses and business organisations.

“As well as working with my colleagues on the Cumbria committee to enhance the member experience through high quality, regular events, my tenure has provided me with the invaluable opportunity to connect with policy and decision makers, to ensure that as an organisation, we can offer the right support to our members.”

Claire Ebrey, the institute's regional director, added: “We thank Chris for his fantastic contribution to the Cumbria branch over the past two years and as a pioneering organisation, we are excited to be offering this unique opportunity to a new chair in due course."

For more information about the role and to apply, visit https://www.iod.com or to discuss the role, email claire.ebrey@iod.com

Applications close at midnight on December 10.