CBI appoints new North West regional director

Following an extensive and competitive recruitment process Helen Gbormittah has been appointed as CBI’s North West Regional Director. 

Helen brings over a decade of experience working within business membership organisations. She first joined the CBI in 2014 as Associate Director in the CBI's London office, before relocating to the North West in 2016 working as Deputy Director for the region until her appointment as Acting Regional Director in May 2025.

Prior to joining the CBI Helen has experience at organisations such as the London Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) and global retail insights provider Planet Retail.

Helen is responsible for engaging with and representing business leaders on key policy and regulatory issues affecting the North West region working with a diverse portfolio of members.

In addition to her role, Helen is Co-Chair of the CBI's Working Families Network and sits on the Business Advisory Board for Cheshire & Warrington. 

Representing the views of regional companies, she will ensure the UK’s most influential business network reflects the priorities of firms in North West England. 

The CBI would also like to thank former Regional Director Damian Waters for his 27 years of incredible service to the region, championing business across the North West and congratulate him on his promotion to Commercial Director - England at the CBI.

Damian Waters, Commercial Director England, CBI, said: 

“I’m absolutely thrilled to see Helen appointed as Regional Director. She knows the North West inside out and brings a brilliant mix of insight, energy, and deep-rooted commitment to the role. Helen’s been a champion for business in the region throughout her time with the CBI, and there’s no one better placed to take things forward. She’s hit the ground running and the North West is in excellent hands.”

Helen Gbormittah, Regional Director, CBI said: 

“I am delighted to be appointed as the CBI’s new North West Regional Director and to step up into such an exciting role. Having studied, lived and worked here for much of my life, I’m passionate about elevating the North West business voice and showcasing the significant strengths and ambitions of our business community.

“I am committed to ensuring that our voice is heard nationally to inform policies and initiatives that support sustainable growth, innovation and that benefit businesses here in the region and the wider UK. It’s been an absolute privilege to work alongside CBI’s former Regional Director Damian Waters for the last decade, and I look forward to continuing to build on this work with the North West business community.”