PEXA welcomes Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL as its new ambassador and adviser.
- Sir Roger aims to strengthen PEXA’s business ties in Yorkshire.
- He has a notable history as chair of the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership.
- PEXA’s roots in Yorkshire grow deeper with significant investments.
- The initiative will expand Yorkshire’s tech hub’s influence nationally.
PEXA, a digital property transaction specialist, has appointed Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL as an ambassador and adviser to its board for its UK business. The appointment marks a strategic move to enhance PEXA’s ties with the Yorkshire region and bolster its influence across the United Kingdom. Known for his extensive expertise, Sir Roger brings a wealth of experience that promises to be invaluable in achieving these objectives.
During his tenure from 2013 to 2022 as chair of the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Sir Roger was pivotal in transforming the region. His leadership extended to chairing the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund Strategic Oversight Board, where he played a critical role in driving the government’s vision for economic levelling up of the North. He also led the NP11, a consortium of northern LEPs, until 2023, further solidifying his role in advocating for northern economic development.
PEXA, which has established its headquarters in Leeds, has made significant investments in Yorkshire, including the acquisition of the remortgage conveyancer Optima Legal. The firm actively engages in regional initiatives like the Leeds Digital Festival and LegalTech in Leeds. Through these efforts, PEXA aims to strengthen its position within the local business ecosystem while elevating the Yorkshire tech hub’s stature on a national level. Sir Roger’s profound understanding of the regional business landscape and its broader economic significance positions him uniquely to aid these efforts.
Yorkshire is recognised as a significant centre for financial services and fintech enterprises. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has chosen it as a regional hub, and the Bank of England plans to expand its presence, with 500 staff expected to be based there by 2027. Leeds-based PEXA has invested £150 million in its mission to innovate the UK’s housing sector’s digitisation process. In collaboration with Sir Roger’s expertise, PEXA seeks to exhibit its technological advancements, benefiting both local and national economies.
Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL has expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating, “Yorkshire – and the north more broadly – is a hotbed of innovation.” He highlighted the region’s dynamic ecosystem, which attracts major institutions and ambitious start-ups. According to him, PEXA’s involvement brings proven technology and investment that fuels the broader tech ecosystem’s growth. Working with PEXA, he envisions deepening the company’s presence in the region and delivering market benefits.
Glenn King, Managing Director and CEO of PEXA Group, asserts that Leeds is home to some of the UK’s most exciting and innovative companies. He emphasised that locating PEXA’s UK headquarters in Leeds aligns naturally with its corporate strategy. King welcomes Sir Roger, acknowledging his significant leadership and business acumen that would drive regional growth via collaboration.
UK CEO Joe Pepper echoed similar sentiments, noting the robust tech ecosystem in Leeds that PEXA has become part of. He reflected on the substantial support received since establishing the base in Leeds and expressed determination to amplify these businesses’ national profile. Recognising Sir Roger’s extensive network and unrivalled experience, Pepper sees him as a pivotal addition to PEXA’s strategic journey.
PEXA’s strategic appointment of Sir Roger Marsh is set to significantly bolster its influence in Yorkshire and across the UK.
