North East investment company Develop North PLC (Develop North), managed by Newcastle-based fund management specialists, Tier One Capital (Tier One), has added to its board with the appointment of Dr Sameer Al-Ansari as Non-Executive Director and Deputy Chairman.
Dr Al-Ansari, an internationally respected figure in finance, investment and corporate governance, will play a key role in shaping Develop North’s future investment and wider fund strategy.
His appointment will also significantly support the fund’s ambitions to raise its international profile, drive new investment into the company and promote economic growth across the North East region.
With more than 30 years’ experience, Dr Al-Ansari has held senior leadership roles across a range of sectors including financial services, private equity, healthcare, real estate and digital assets.
His career highlights include founding Dubai International Capital (DIC), where he served as Executive Chairman and CEO, overseeing $13 billion in assets, and leading Dubai based investment banking group SHUAA Capital through a successful post-financial crisis recovery as its CEO.
Most recently CEO of RAK Digital Assets Oasis, Dr Al-Ansari also holds a number of prominent board positions with organisations including Dubai listed Al Ramz Corporation, TVM Healthcare Partners and Marjan, the leading developer of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. He has previously served on the boards of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Dubai Holding and the Hawkamah Institute of Corporate Governance.
Develop North, which is listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange, provides finance solutions to credible professionals and businesses across the North of England and Scotland. Since its inception in 2017, the fund has deployed almost £100 million in capital to support over 40 projects, creating more than 3,200 jobs and helping deliver a gross development value of nearly £250 million.
Dr Sameer Al-Ansari said: “I am delighted to join the board of Develop North at such an exciting time in its evolution. The fund has a clear ambition to support high-quality investment opportunities and drive positive economic impact across the North of England. I look forward to bringing my expertise and network to support its continued growth and to help further raise its profile nationally and internationally.”
John Newlands, Chairman of Develop North, said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Sameer to the board. His exceptional track record and global perspective will bring valuable depth to our strategic thinking. This appointment marks another important step in elevating Develop North’s position as a catalyst for investment and growth across the North East region.”
Ian McElroy, CEO of Tier One Capital, said: “Dr Al-Ansari’s appointment represents a significant strengthening of Develop North’s leadership and direction. His undoubted experience, proven track record and international reputation will help to enhance the fund’s strategic vision and capability.
“Sameer’s involvement will not only support the long-term growth of Develop North, but will also help attract greater investment into the North East, creating new opportunities and supporting the region’s future prosperity.”