East Midlands Freeport (EMF) has reappointed Nora Senior CBE DL as chair, ensuring continuity of leadership as the UK’s only inland freeport enters its next phase of delivery across three nationally strategic sites.
The announcement coincides with the launch of EMF’s new Investment Strategy and 2025/26 Business Plan, which set out priorities to unlock significant private sector investment, support clean growth, and strengthen the East Midlands’ role in advanced manufacturing, logistics, energy and innovation.
Since its establishment in 2021, EMF has secured £150m of private investment and enabled the creation of more than 850 skilled jobs. The Freeport’s current priorities include: transport and connectivity improvements to enable long-term growth across the region, advancing commercialisation at the nationally significant East Midlands Intermodal Park (EMIP), and driving clean energy and innovation at the Ratcliffe-on-Soar site, supporting the UK’s transition to net zero.
Nora Senior has provided strategic direction for the Freeport since inception, overseeing its progress from start-up to operational delivery. Under her leadership, EMF has built a robust public–private partnership, established strong relationships with government, industry and regional stakeholders, and aligned its strategy with national priorities in clean energy, advanced manufacturing and trade.
Her reappointment provides stability at a time when EMF is focused on delivery that will shape both the regional economy and the UK’s wider competitiveness.
Nora Senior CBE DL, chair of East Midlands Freeport, said: “East Midlands Freeport is delivering real impact — attracting investment, creating jobs, and laying the foundations for long-term prosperity. As we move from ambition into implementation, I am pleased to continue leading this partnership to ensure we maximise the Freeport’s potential for our region and the UK.”
An award-winning business leader, Nora has held senior positions including executive group chair of a multinational communications company, president of the British Chambers of Commerce, and vice chair of council at the University of Nottingham. Her experience in strategic communications and international business engagement will continue to be an asset as EMF strengthens collaboration with government, investors and industry.
Tom Newman-Taylor, chief executive of East Midlands Freeport, added: “Nora’s leadership has been central to establishing East Midlands Freeport as one of the UK’s most advanced. With her reappointment, we can move forward with confidence – accelerating delivery across our sites and ensuring the Freeport continues to attract investment and create opportunities locally, regionally and nationally.”
