Percy is one of the North East’s most well-known and highly connected regeneration and development leaders, with a strong track record of attracting investment and delivering complex, high-profile real estate and infrastructure schemes. Credit: via Recognition PR

Michelle Percy named as Develop North’s chief executive

26 January 2026 09:26 Sally Gibson Comments (0)

The former director of investment and growth at Newcastle City Council joins the investment company as it enters the next phase of its growth, with ambition to evolve into a £300m assets-under-management platform that supports regeneration across the North East.

Percy spent nine years at the council, and played a pivotal role in schemes such as Forth Yards, Pilgrim Street, and Newcastle Helix, via public-private partnerships.

She also secured the funding for the restoration of the landmark Tyne Bridge, and was closely involved with Newcastle United’s leadership team following its acquisition by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund as it decides which direction to go in with the city centre St James football ground.

Over this time, as well as improving the city’s global investment profile, the schemes Percy was involved with formed part of a development pipeline valued at almost £7bn.

Prior to joining the council, she was Director at Clouston Group, where she worked on a number of landmark schemes including the Stephenson Quarter development and the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Newcastle, helping to build the company’s development pipeline and support long-term growth.

Develop North has now launched a £58m fundraise scheme as it looks to scale its profile in the region.

Percy said: “I am so proud to be taking on this role at such an important moment for Develop North and for the North East more broadly.

“The region is continuing to attract national and international interest, and Develop North has a unique role to play in helping to unlock inward investment while also giving people who live here, or who are from here, the opportunity to invest directly in the future of the region.

“Develop North offers a compelling way for investors to play a part in shaping the North East’s next chapter, supporting regeneration, jobs and long-term economic growth.

“For me personally, this role is a continuation of my long-standing commitment to a region I care deeply about, and I’m excited to help build a platform that channels capital into projects that make a real difference.”

John Newlands, chairman of Develop North, said: “Michelle brings an outstanding pedigree to Develop North. Her track record of securing investment, delivering major regeneration schemes and building effective partnerships across the public and private sectors is second to none in the North East.

“As we enter the next phase of Develop North’s growth, including the launch of our proposed £58m fundraise, Michelle brings extensive knowledge and experience to lead the business forward. She combines deep regional knowledge with a proven ability to execute complex projects, and we are delighted to welcome her as chief executive officer.”