MARKETING Lancashire has appointed a new boss.

The county tourism body has appointed Rachel McQueen as its new chief executive with effect from May.

She was formerly tourism director of Marketing Cheshire and previously worked as deputy chief executive of its Manchester counterpart..

Announcing the appointment today Marketing Lancashire chairman Tony Attard, chief executive of Burnley-based Panaz, which provides a range of healthcare fabrics, said: “Rachel’s leadership qualities and extensive experience in place marketing and tourism in the North West, made her an ideal candidate for the role and for advancing our ambitions and plans for Lancashire. I’m very much looking forward to embarking together on a number of significant projects for the county.”

She said “I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to lead Marketing Lancashire. The potential is immense and I am keen to start working to maximise every opportunity. It will be an honour to be part of Lancashire’s future growth.”

Ms McQueen added: “I firmly believe that this organisation is one of the best-placed in the country, to set the standard for future Destination Management Organisations and for strategic place marketing.

“ Previous leadership has clearly set the direction of travel and made significant ground and I am confident that my skills and experience will enable me to build on this success.”