North East of England-based investment company Develop North plc announced the appointment of its chief executive officer Michelle Percy to the board as an executive director with immediate effect.

Since the company’s IPO in 2017, Develop North has invested almost £90 million of capital into the North of England and Scotland.

“Michelle joined Develop North as chief executive officer in January 2026 and has since led work to develop the company’s growth strategy, strengthen its regional relationships and identify opportunities to expand its investment platform,” said Develop North.

“Michelle has more than 30 years of senior leadership experience across the public and private sectors, with a particular focus on property, regeneration, investment and strategic development.

“Before joining Develop North, she spent almost nine years at Newcastle City Council, most recently as Director of Investment and Growth.

“In that role, she played a leading part in fostering public-private partnerships, attracting inward investment and progressing major regeneration and development projects forming part of a pipeline valued at approximately £7 billion.

“Michelle is independent of Tier One Capital Ltd, Broadoak Asset Management Limited and Homes or Houses Limited.

“This appointment reflects the board’s confidence in Michelle’s leadership and ensures the company’s executive leadership is directly represented at board level.”

Develop North chairman John Newlands said: “Since joining as chief executive officer in January, Michelle has made a significant contribution to Develop North and its growth strategy.

“Her extensive leadership experience across investment, regeneration and economic development, together with her deep understanding of the North East and strong regional relationships, make her a valuable addition to the board.

“Michelle shares our ambition to grow Develop North into a larger investment platform, directing more long-term capital into the region while delivering attractive returns for shareholders.”

Percy said: “I am delighted to join the board of Develop North. The role brings together my experience across regeneration, property and investment, as well as my commitment to the North East.

“Develop North has a distinctive opportunity to connect investors with high-quality regional assets and support locally driven growth, closely aligned with the Government’s focus on devolution.

“I look forward to working with the board to grow the company, create value for shareholders and contribute to the region’s long-term prosperity.”