The CEO of one of the country's largest training providers, headquartered in County Durham, has been appointed Deputy Lieutenant of County Durham.

Brenda McLeish OBE, who leads the Learning Curve Group, has been given the honour for her dedication and contribution to education and skills in the region.

The role takes on an added importance with less than a month to go until County Durham finds out if it will be the next UK City of Culture.

Brenda helps create opportunities for over 200,000 individuals a year to advance their skills and build a career, and was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list for her contribution to education.

Read more: City of Culture 2025 views from the streets of County Durham

Deputy lieutenants are nominated by a lord lieutenant, to assist with any duties as may be required, and receive their commission of appointment by command of the Queen. 

Brenda McLeish OBE DL said: “I am honoured to be appointed as Deputy Lieutenant of County Durham by Lord Lieutenant Sue Snowdon. I am incredibly passionate about raising aspirations for our region and people who live here. Throughout my career I have been dedicated to transforming lives through learning by promoting opportunities for all to build a career through our high-quality training programmes.”

Charity and community work is also deeply rooted in our values at Learning Curve Group, we take training to those in the community who may be in difficult or vulnerable situations and have raised over £75,000 through our LCG Charity Foundation to support charities in County Durham

"I am looking forward to working closely with the other Deputy Lieutenants to ensure we continue our work to make education accessible to all in our region.”

Read more: Why County Durham should win City of Culture

Sue Snowdon, Lord Lieutenant of County Durham, said: “As Lord Lieutenant my aims for the Lieutenancy are to provide a focus for identity, unity and pride; give a sense of stability, recognising achievements, success and excellence; promoting service to others; celebrating the unique history and culture of the Lieutenancy area; supporting its communities and helping to make a positive contribution to the areas future.”

“To achieve this I appoint Deputy Lieutenants. Brenda has been involved with education and training for many years, providing opportunities for many to reach their full potential whatever their personal circumstances or socio-economic status. As a Deputy Lieutenant she will bring vast experience and knowledge of that sector and its needs.”

Brenda joined LCG in 2008 when the business had 40 employees and a turnover of £1 million, she has helped drive significant growth in the business and LCG now employs over 800 staff across the country. Brenda has recently been shortlisted as a regional finalist for EY Entrepreneur of the Year.

 

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