After more than a decade of leadership, Dean Orgill is stepping down as Chair of the Brighton & Hove Growth Board (formerly the Brighton & Hove Economic Partnership (BHEP)), leaving behind a legacy of progress and collaboration that has shaped the city’s economic future. Dean will now take up a new challenge as Chair of The Living Coast Biosphere, continuing his commitment to sustainability and regional development.

Since taking on the role in 2014, Dean has been a driving force behind initiatives that have made Brighton & Hove more competitive, inclusive, and sustainable. Under his guidance, the BHEP has launched numerous Economic Strategies, in partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council. The most recent of which sets out a three-year roadmap within a ten-year vision to create an economy that is "Competitive, Productive, Fairer and Greener".

Most recently, Dean has presided over the delivery of the Brighton & Hove Business Growth Board, ensuring local businesses have a strong voice in strategic planning, which will ultimately feed into the work of the new mayoral authority for Sussex.

Beyond Brighton, Dean amplified the city’s influence through the Greater Brighton Economic Board, strengthening regional partnerships and economic resilience. His contributions earned him recognition as Business Person of the Year 2024 at the Sussex Business Awards - a testament to his dedication and impact.

As the BHEP transitions into the Brighton & Hove Growth Board, Dean’s departure marks the end of an era, but his vision for a greener, fairer, and thriving economy will continue to guide the city for years to come.

Dean Orgill reflected on his time as Chair, saying:

“The BHEP has been a critical friend to the Local Authority for over 20 years. It’s been a privilege to work alongside so many committed people to help shape Brighton & Hove’s economic future. As we move into a new chapter with the Growth Board, I’m confident the city’s business voice will remain strong and continue to drive positive change.”

Gavin Stewart, Executive Director of the Growth Board said:

“It is without doubt that Dean’s role in helping to deliver a coordinated business voice to address the economic issues faced by the city has been huge. Thanks to his incisive, inclusive guidance, we are well positioned to deliver on an economic plan that aims to benefit the whole of Brighton & Hove.”