The Institute of Directors (IoD) has appointed international business expert Jon Geldart as its chairman for North Yorkshire.

Mr Geldart is executive director, markets development, for business advisor Grant Thornton. He is an expert on the impact of China on the UK economy and has authored two books on doing business in China and working with the Chinese.

He will work alongside branch committee members and ambassadors to ensure that the views of North Yorkshire businesses are represented within the IoD’s national policy voice while contributing to the regional committee for Yorkshire.

Mr Geldart succeeds Ed Reid, owner of York-based The Alternative Board, who stepped down from the role earlier this year. He will work alongside Tracey Smith, chief executive of York Science Park, who is vice-chairman for the North Yorkshire region.

Mr Geldart said: "I am delighted to be accepted as chairman and look forward to working with the team. I believe the work of the IoD can be developed by engaging more actively with the local business community and other stakeholders."

JMG Townends Insurance Brokers has expanded its team as the York-based firm looks to further strengthen client relationships and grow over the next two years.

Jane Haddon joins the business as an account manager from Romero Insurance Brokers in Leeds. SHe started her career in insurance at risk management and insurance firm AON over 25 years ago, moving to Arthur J Gallagher (previously Heath Lambert) in 2011, where she spent 14 years.

In her new role, Ms Haddon is responsible for managing client accounts and relationships with JMG Townends’ client base of start-up and well-established businesses in York and further afield.

She is also the first point of contact for insurance renewals and client enquiries.

JMG Townends is led by David Fryer, who said: "The business is growing, and our focus is on making sure we continue that growth while consistently delivering high standards of service to our clients.

"Jane’s extensive insurance industry experience means that she is well placed to look after the day to day needs of our clients, and her role is to help us maintain the bespoke, personal approach that we take to all of our work."

JMG Townends insurance brokers is a joint venture between Townends Chartered Accountants and insurance broker, JM Glendinning.

The firm relocated to York from the JM Glendinning headquarters in Guiseley in June last year to support Townends Accountants’ clients and help facilitate plans to double the size of the insurance business over the next two years.