Emma Liddiard with David Philpott, outgoing chairman of the Institute of Directors Kent branch

by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Radio station chief Emma Liddiard is to become the new chairman of an
influential business group.

She takes over as chairman of the Kent branch of the Institute of Directors at the start of next month.

Ms Liddiard replaces David Philpott, the former chief executive of Kent Air
Ambulance, who has been in the role for the past three years.

Her media career spans 17 years and has extensive contacts in Kent's business community.

She has been a judge in the Kent Excellence in Business Awards (KEiBA), working with Mr Philpott on the Entrepreneur of the Year category.

IoD Kent is one of its most active branches in the UK, with more than 1,500 members.

Around 40% are chairmen, chief executive officers or managing directors and 45% have senior boardroom roles such as non-executive directorships.

The branch has pioneered work with young people, especially through KAYE – the Kent Association for Young Entrepreneurs.

"David has left some large shoes to fill," said Ms Liddiard. "I must admit, I didn't know a lot about the organisation and joined the IoD because of David.

"Since becoming a member however, I have discovered many, many advantages of being part of this network and I feel passionate about sharing these with more people in Kent.

"I hope I can continue to build on the success David has achieved in the last three years."

Ms Liddiard is the managing director of Heart – part of Global Radio.

She lives near Dover with her husband Jerry, a teacher, and their three-year old son William.

In her spare time, Ms Liddiard looks after her two horses and enjoys gardening.