A PIONEERING Somerset resident behind several regeneration projects in Bridgwater has been crowned Leader of the Year at the Institute of Economic Development (IED) Annual Awards 2024.

Claire Pearce was named Leader of the Year, recognising her abilities as a pioneer of economic development. Claire is Founder and Executive Director of Real Growth Ltd, and formerly Director of Planning and Economic Development at This is Gravity Ltd.  

The awards were hosted in London on November 6, 2024, following the IED Annual Conference on delivering long-lasting change in towns, cities and regions. 

The Leader of the Year is awarded for economic development professionals who demonstrate outstanding leadership and management in their role, and who motivate and inspire their team to achieve success through effective leadership.

Claire’s career has seen her provide transformational leadership to kickstart and deliver long-term economic restructuring on the once-contaminated, 616-acre site into a clean growth hub - which has since become the Gravity commercial smart campus.

Speaking about the award, Claire said: “I am genuinely heartened at receiving this award. It marks quite a milestone in what has been a challenging journey to restructure the economy, attract international investment and transform Bridgwater as a place.”

“I am passionate about making things happen, creating opportunities for business and host communities, by shaping nationally significant projects and their ancillary developments.”

“The South West has certainly got a key role in delivering a modern industrial strategy, so let’s make that happen”, Claire reflected.

Host of the IED Annual Awards 2024, Bev Hurley CBE, commented: “Many congratulations to Claire as the winner of our Leader of the Year award. Our judges praised Claire for her dedication, pioneering spirit, and ultimately ability to transform a previously abandoned site into a hub for new technologies and inclusive employment opportunities.”

“The judges said the submission demonstrated Claire’s tenacity, knowledge, and strong communication skills, which were crucial for unlocking significant economic potential.”

The IED is the UK’s leading independent professional body for economic development and regeneration practitioners, supporting them to create stronger communities and sustainable economies.