UK regeneration specialist St Modwen has appointed Fran Leedham as head of responsible business as part of a deepening commitment to sustainability.
The company outlined a series of responsible business commitments at the beginning of 2020, including ambitious targets around carbon, biodiversity and education. Leedham reports to Rob Hudson, chief finance and operations officer.
Leedham joins St Modwen from JLL where she was director of its sustainability strategy consulting practice, working closely with clients to advise on and implement progressive ESG and sustainability programmes. Her experience spans a range of sectors, including real estate. She also previously worked for Jaguar Land Rover where she was most recently global head of environment & sustainability.
St Modwen's responsible business targets focus on six core areas to make a sustained difference to society and the environment, including a commitment to being operationally net carbon zero by 2025 and fully net carbon zero by 2040.
The company said it was evolving its working practices and collaborating with stakeholders to deliver on these ambitions which are linked to the UN’s sustainable development goals. The other strategic areas comprise biodiversity and sustainable environments; diversity and inclusion; education and future skills; health and wellbeing; and responsible operational practices and partnerships.
Hudson said: 'Fran blends strategic thinking, industry insights and practical know-how; most importantly, she knows what it takes to be a leader in sustainable practices and will help us deliver on our ambitions.
'Behind all of what we do, we know that for our people, our customers and communities, our partners and investors, delivering on our environment and social commitments is no longer a choice but an integrated part of how we do business.'
Leedham added: 'I am thrilled to have joined St Modwen having been inspired by the company’s deep-rooted commitment to acting responsibly and delivering on its ambitious goals.
'Given the number of ways St Modwen can make a positive impact on society, I see the foundations of a leading responsible business programme and am hugely motivated by what lies ahead.'
