The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has appointed a new non-executive director.
Lisa Oakes, who is finance director at Bodmin-based confectionery company Buttermilk, will also chair the LEP’s Audit and Assurance Committee. Lisa has more than 20 years of business finance and accountancy experience.
She joined Buttermilk part-time in 2012 as a consultant management accountant and became full time finance director in 2016.
The award-winning, family-run business was established in 1964 producing traditional fudge and now offers a range of products in home and overseas markets, including dairy-free and vegan options.
Prior to that Lisa held a variety of finance and accountancy roles with a range of Cornish businesses including Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm, Pooleys Chartered Accountants and Mannings Hotel, Bar and Restaurant.
Commenting on her appointment, Lisa said: “I’ve experienced first-hand the many challenges of growing a successful business and I want to bring those skills to the LEP board as it shapes the economic future of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.”
LEP chair Mark Duddridge added: “Lisa has a wealth of insight and experience that will enrich our board and we are delighted to welcome her to the LEP as we focus on post-pandemic economic recovery and delivery of our Local Industrial Strategy.”
The LEP is a partnership between business and the public sector and is responsible for setting and driving the economic strategy for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. It works with the government, businesses and others to prioritise activities which grow the economy and create quality jobs. Its 16-strong board is drawn from business, education, voluntary sector and local authority leaders.
Alongside her role at Buttermilk, Lisa is also a strong supporter of mental health and wellbeing, volunteering as a mentor for Young People Cornwall. She also volunteers as treasurer for the Grasshoppers FC, the community football club her son plays for, and is a keen cyclist.