A LEADING businesswoman says she aims to help companies flourish after being appointed to a new role.

Heidi Mottram, Northumbrian Water Group chief executive, has been named North-East ambassador for Business in the Community.

The organisation, the Prince of Wales’ Responsible Business Network, brings together members under an umbrella of issues aimed at creating what it says is a fairer society and more sustainable future.

Ms Mottram, who has experience of chairing the Confederation of British Industry in the North-East, said she is confident her appointment can help firms grow.

She said: “I passionately believe business has a critical role in making a lasting, meaningful and positive difference to our communities and the environment.

“Over the next two years I hope my leadership will support other businesses and partners from across different sectors to come together to tackle some of our most challenging sustainability issues that have a real impact on people’s lives and our future prosperity.

“At Northumbrian Water, we have shown how businesses can work innovatively in partnership to help make sure the places we live and work remain special and thriving environments for generations to come.

“By pulling together and working creatively, I am confident we can make a step change in our approach to build resilience and create a more sustainable future for us all.”

Ms Mottram previously worked alongside Lord Andrew Adonis as deputy chair for the North East Local Enterprise Partnership during its Economic Review, which sought to identify areas of growth and job creation in the region.

Last week, she was named as one of the UK’s top 50 female engineers in a poll compiled to celebrate National Women in Engineering Day.