The LCR Pride Foundation has appointed Andi Herring as its first ever Interim CEO.
Co-founder Andi, who sat on the organisation’s Board of Directors as Chair since its incorporation in January 2019, takes on the position after departing his role as Head of Business Insight at Liverpool BID Company, where he worked for five years.
In his new role, Andi will be responsible for driving the strategic goals of the LCR Pride Foundation, managing overall operations and leading on key events and campaigns delivered by the organisation, including Pride in Liverpool, which was recently postponed due to the COVID-19 crisis.
The appointment was made following a successful first year with the largest ‘March with Pride’ ever seen in the city and faster-than-expected growth. Andi has also been involved in LGBT+ organisations and projects for the last eight years, from his student activism to the Stanley Street Quarter, Liverpool’s designated LGBT+ area and Pride in Liverpool.
Speaking of his appointment, Andi said: “In 2019, we set out a vision to establish a financially sustainable organisation that would support and celebrate our LGBT+ community and extend the message of Pride outside of the annual festival in July and across the Liverpool City Region.
“The response last year was phenomenal, with a successful series of events and overwhelming support from our sponsors, donors and partners. Last week we announced our 2020/21 theme ‘Young at Heart’ alongside a programme of digital events to keep the region’s LGBT+ community and allies connected, especially during the COVID-19 crisis that has led us to revise and adapt our plans.
“It is an extremely challenging time to take on this role, but the current health crisis simply makes it clearer than ever just how vital it is to have an organisation that unites our vibrant and diverse community.
“I am honoured to have been appointed as Interim CEO and l look forward to being able to drive the organisation forward to achieve its founding objectives.”
Lewis Collins, Chair of the LCR Pride Foundation Board of Directors, added: “Since its inception in January 2019, the LCR Pride Foundation has been embraced by businesses and organisations across the city region who share its vision to make it the most LGBT+ friendly region in the UK. This support has been unwavering during these unprecedented times.
“Taking on the role of Interim CEO at this time is indeed a challenge. However, Andi’s professional experience and network of contacts, combined with his commitment and intimate knowledge of the LCR Pride Foundation, make him the ideal person to take on that challenge and drive the organisation forward.”
