Leeds Financial Services Initiative (LFSI) has appointed Howard Kew as chief executive to lead a three year programme channelling over £3m of public and private sector funding into supporting and developing the financial services sector of the Leeds city region.

Howard Kew, who has held a number of senior positions at Norwich Union, takes over the role of LFSI chief executive on a full time basis immediately.

Mr Kew will recruit and lead a six-strong team in an enlarged LFSI to deliver the programme, which was announced this summer, under a partnership agreement with Yorkshire Forward.

"Howard Kew was the outstanding candidate in a high quality field. He has the leadership and management experience necessary to lead and develop LFSI in its new expanded form," said Kevin O'Connor, chairman of LFSI.