Chris George – CPCA Growth Hub Manager

Chris is an experienced professional with over 30 years of knowledge and experience in sales and marketing within the public sector along with 15 years working for mainstream automotive manufacturers in the sub 10,000 fleet.

Chris George has delivered sustainable change in a vast range of industries, whilst constantly updating and developing core competencies and knowledge. Working in the Local Authority sector for the last 15 years has resulted in once failing territories becoming some of the best performing areas in the country, with excellent stakeholder engagement and a passion for premium delivery.

Out of work, Chris is a keen gardener, property restorer and enjoys reading.

Ashleigh Jackson – CPCA Growth Hub Business Advisor

A proven negotiator and sales management professional with more than 25 years’ experience in brand building and driving category growth within the private sector.

A strong research background, alongside vast experience with generating high income revenue streams through sponsorship and working with senior management within blue-chip companies. Closely worked in collaboration with corporate events management.

My working capacity has initiated good working partnerships within Local Authorities across Hertfordshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire and London.

I am proud to enhance on the team work we do here at the CPCA Growth Hub by supporting and building on many success stories for our entrepreneurs, startups and SMEs.

Away from the business, health and fitness is important to me, being in the great outdoors, and enjoying fun times and relaxation with family and friends.

Maxine Palmer – Growth Hub Business Adviser (Manufacturing & Construction)

Maxine is a seasoned business leader with 20+ years’ experience in sustainability, manufacturing, and growth across public and private sectors. Formerly a Commercial Director, she drove a 120% turnover increase at a UK skincare firm. At CPCA, she supports businesses with strategy, funding, and net zero transition, building strong partnerships to boost regional impact.

Ben Lander – Growth Hub Business Adviser (Retail, Leisure & Hospitality)

Originally from the south of England, Ben started his career on the High Street in Chichester and went on to work in Leisure and Hospitality from bars, pubs and clubs to music and events. 
 
He has also worked for Business Link and what was then UK Trade & Investment, today these functions are under Department for Business & Trade (DBT).  Ben also has experience of working overseas as an English Teacher which includes Shanghai, Spain and the Middle East.  Prior to this role he worked for the CPCA Skills Team before moving to Growth Hub where he’s now keenly supporting local business in Retail, Leisure and Hospitality. 
 
Outside of work Ben likes watching football and loves watching live music! 

Nick Lancaster – Growth Hub Business Adviser (Start Up & Innovation)

Nick supports entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses with strategy, funding, and scaling. With expertise in business development, innovation, and investment readiness, he connects startups with investors, accelerators, and R&D partners. At CPCA Growth Hub, he fosters collaboration across local authorities, academia, and industry to build a thriving innovation ecosystem in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

Liana Sanneh – CPCA Growth Hub Data Analyst

Liana Sanneh is a highly skilled professional with 15 years of experience in Executive Assistant and Office Manager roles. Throughout her career, she has garnered valuable experience working for companies such as Warner Bros, Daily Mirror, Aviva, AXA, and Microsoft..

In the last four years, Liana has transitioned into the role of an Analyst within the Local Authority, where she has enjoyed demonstrating her proficiency in reporting and data analysis.

Outside of the office, Liana enjoys spending time with her children, pursuing her passion for interior design, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.