Design Council appoints Godber deputy chief executive

Former director of Nissan Design Europe, David Godber, is joining the Design Council as its deputy chief executive.

Starting work on 2 June, Godber will lead the delivery of the Design Council’s programmes. He replaces Harry Rich, who left in October last year.

An economist by training, Godber has been commercial director of both Audi and Lotus, and recently pioneered the first successful claim in the UK for research and development tax credits for design-led businesses.

In an orchestrated effort to strengthen its senior team ahead of the launch of its three-year strategic plan, the Design Council has also made two promotions.

The head of the Design Council’s knowledge team, Andrea Siodmok, is to take the new role of chief design officer. Her expanded remit includes developing new programmes to support innovation in public services.

Head of design skills Lesley Morris is confirmed as interim director of the UK Design Skills Alliance.

A permanent director will be appointed once outside funding for the alliance has been secured.

The newly established initiative aims to help professionals gain new skills and raise teaching standards in schools and colleges.

Design Council chief executive David Kester says, ‘Design is moving firmly to the centre of policy as governments around the world seek to secure competitive advantage within the global economy… These new appointments… will help us drive policy, deliver programmes and support industry, education and the wider design community in the UK.’