Michelle Percy, chief executive of North East-based investment company Develop North PLC has been appointed to the board as an executive director.
Michelle joined the business as chief executive in January 2026 and has since led work to develop its growth strategy, strengthen its regional relationships and identify opportunities to expand its investment platform.
She has more than 30 years of senior leadership experience across the public and private sectors, with a particular focus on property, regeneration, investment and strategic development.
Before joining Develop North, Michelle spent almost nine years at Newcastle City Council, most recently as director of investment and growth. In that role, she played a leading part in fostering public-private partnerships, attracting inward investment and progressing major regeneration and development projects forming part of a pipeline valued at approximately £7bn.
Speaking about her appointment Michelle said: “I am delighted to join the board of Develop North. The role brings together my experience across regeneration, property and investment, as well as my commitment to the North East.
“Develop North has a distinctive opportunity to connect investors with high-quality regional assets and support locally driven growth, closely aligned with the Government’s focus on devolution. I look forward to working with the board to grow the company, create value for shareholders and contribute to the region’s long term prosperity.”
John Newlands, chairman of Develop North, added: “Since joining as chief executive officer in January, Michelle has made a significant contribution to Develop North and its growth strategy. Her extensive leadership experience across investment, regeneration and economic development, together with her deep understanding of the North East and strong regional relationships, make her a valuable addition to the board.
“She shares our ambition to grow Develop North into a larger investment platform, directing more long-term capital into the region while delivering attractive returns for shareholders.”
Develop North PLC is a North East-based investment company listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange.
The company operates as a diversified real estate investment platform investing across residential real estate, commercial real estate and real estate lending to support regeneration, job creation and economic growth.
Since 2017, Develop North PLC has deployed approximately £90 million across more than 43 projects with a gross development value exceeding £280 million and has helped support around 12,000 jobs.
www.developnorth.co.uk