Lincoln BIG has announced the appointment of three new Non-Executive Directors to its Board, bringing a wealth of experience across hospitality, property, retail and long-established local business.
The new appointments will support Lincoln BIG’s strategic ambitions to strengthen the city’s business environment, enhance the visitor economy and ensure Lincoln remains a vibrant and inclusive place to work, visit and invest.
Marcus is Managing Partner at Taylor Ross and brings more than a decade of experience across lettings, property investment and project management. He is also the co-founder of The Lincoln Imporium, the city’s first experiential retail destination celebrating Lincoln’s iconic Imp.
Commenting on his appointment, Marcus said:
“I’m really excited to be joining the Board of Lincoln BIG, bringing with me over a decade of real-world business experience across the property, investment and retail industries.”
With a strong blend of strategic business development, independent business ownership and a creative outlook, Marcus is well placed to champion local growth and support Lincoln BIG in delivering both its short- and long-term goals for the city’s business and visitor community.
He added:
“With the recent announcement that Lincoln BIG will be a key partner in the relaunch of Visit Lincoln, alongside other initiatives designed to support and boost the visitor economy, it’s an inspiring time to be involved with the organisation and contribute to the city’s future.”
Founded in 1902, Stokes is a family business now in its fourth generation and a much-loved Lincoln institution. The business is led by Managing Director Nick Peel, who, alongside his team, continues to put more than 120 years of expertise into sourcing, roasting and blending coffee and tea for both retail and wholesale customers.
Stokes also operates two destination cafés in Lincoln, a recently launched takeaway concept, Stokes To Go, and a dedicated barista training academy.
Commenting on his appointment to the Lincoln BIG Board, Nick said:
“As a resident and local business owner, I am deeply invested in both the community and the economic growth of Lincoln, and I look forward to working with Lincoln BIG to help build a vibrant and more inclusive city.
“My family business has been part of the fabric of Lincoln for more than a century and, having grown up within it, I bring a unique skill set and a wide network of long-standing relationships, which I hope will be of real value as I take my seat on the board.”
Jez brings over 30 years’ experience in the licensed trade, spanning bars, restaurants, nightclubs, wholesale, brewing and drinks manufacturing.
In 2012, he opened The Strait and Narrow, helping to redefine Lincoln’s night-time economy. He later launched Strait Up Cocktails in 2020, a Lincoln-based drinks manufacturing business now supplying both retail and wholesale customers nationwide.
He commented:
“I’m extremely proud to have been elected to Lincoln BIG and to represent the hospitality industry in the city.”
Jez added: “I’m looking forward to bringing some of the experience that’s made our businesses a success into this role and doing my best to help the city prosper.”
Lincoln BIG looks forward to working closely with its new Non-Executive Directors as it continues to support local businesses, drive footfall and champion Lincoln as a thriving destination.
