The Institute of Directors (IoD) has boosted its South West team with the appointment of a quartet of experienced business leaders.

Future Leap’s Katherine Piper joins as sustainability ambassador while Peter Doyle comes on board as education and skills ambassador. Alex Chikhani is the region’s new inclusivity and diversity ambassador, John Rotherford becomes international ambassador.

Katherine said: “I am delighted to take on the role of SW Sustainability Ambassador for the IoD alongside my role as Head of Sustainability and Partnerships at Future Leap. Such an appointment will strengthen the links between the IoD and Future Leap – Future Leap’s mission being to give organisations the space, knowledge and tools to accelerate their sustainability journey and progress towards net zero carbon. Members of the IoD will benefit from discounted access to all that Future Leap has to offer; weekly sustainability-related events, networking opportunities, sustainability consultancy support, net zero co-working facilities and lots more! I look forward to bringing my expertise and enthusiasm for sustainable development to the IoD. Do get in touch if you would like to know more: info@futureleap.co.uk. “

IoD ambassadors ensure that everything the IoD does places the member first. They enable greater connectivity, create influence and drive professional development opportunities while giving a local voice to the Institute.

The appointments follow the arrival of Steve Hill as IoD South West chair in October 2021. The team is supported by senior manager Kerri-Anne Mruk and branch manager Jayne Miller.

Hill said: “Our ambassadors play a vital, highly valued role in connecting, developing and influencing across the South West. I am delighted to welcome Katherine, Peter, Alex and John to the team.

“Together we strengthen local connectivity with members and give a local voice and presence in the region – helping each other to grow and succeed.”

The IoD South West team is embarking on a regional tour of universities, hubs and businesses in the New Year.

IoD South West is based at the University of the West of England in Bristol. The region’s branch structure aligns with its world-class universities to ensure it fulfils its commitment to deliver ‘Tomorrow’s Director’.