Neil Darwin most recently served as CEO of Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough LEP before joining Deyton Bell. He is a high profile and highly experienced economic development professional with a detailed insight into the issues impacting the Regional Economy. Prior to his work at the LEP Neil was CEO of Opportunity Peterborough, the city’s business led economic development with the remit of leading economic development, business support and inward investment. Prior to this, Neil led Regional Cities East, coordinating partnership working between key Cities to share scarce capacity and positioning the East’s urban agenda with Government.

Pat Smith has over 30 years senior management experience in economic development. Before joining Deyton Bell, Pat worked with major organisations including the Manpower Services Commission, Essex Training & Enterprise Council, Essex Learning & Skills Council, Ixion Holdings and Exemplas Holdings. Most importantly, Pat served as CEO of EEIDB Limited, the leading business services group providing Business Link, Skills Brokerage, International Trade, Inward Investment, Investor Development and other services across Eastern England helping c100,000+ firms pa via its c300 staff and c£25m budget.

Managing Director Chris Parkhouse said “Steve and I are delighted to welcome Neil and Pat to Deyton Bell. Neil and Pat strengthen our Board and also bring significant expertise and welcome extra capacity to the broader Deyton Bell team. They will offer our clients in depth knowledge, skill and experience and together we will manage all client relationships and deliver all Deyton Bell services.”