LEP welcomes senior Morrisons representative to Employment and Skills Panel

20.03.2014

Stephanie Burras, the LEP’s lead on employment and skills has welcomed the news that Head of Employability and Education at leading supermarket chain Morrisons, is to join the LEP’s Employment and Skills Panel.

Paul Dowd has worked for Morrisons for 25 years and brings a wealth of experience to the LEP Panel. Alongside his day job at Morrisons, Paul chairs the IGD’s (Institute of Grocery and Distribution) Employment and Skills group which looks to combine the forces of Food retailers and Manufacturers in championing the industry as a career of choice for young people.

Paul feels passionate about giving something back to the community, specifically when it comes to the employability agenda. He has experience in leading skills trainers and implementing Customer Service Programmes but it is his passion, drive and experience that the LEP is hoping to harness and channel into its work programme.

On hearing the news of his appointment to the Panel, Paul said:

“Morrisons’ heritage sits firmly within the Leeds City Region where we employ over 9,000 people, a significant number of whom, like me, started on the ‘shop floor’ and have progressed through the company.

I am delighted to be joining the Panel and look forward to supporting this vital agenda which will unlock doors for more people to be successful in their careers.”

Stephanie Burras, Chair of the Employment and Skills Panel added:

“We are delighted to have someone of Paul’s calibre and with his level of experience joining our Panel. We are already making significant progress on our Skills Plan and I am confident that Paul will bring a wealth of knowledge from his time with Morrisons and a new perspective on how we can continue to contribute to boosting the regional and national economy.”