Richard Altoro has been appointed as Business Adviser by Unity Enterprise, the not-for-profit subsidiary company of Leeds housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise.
He will lead business development within the Chapeltown and Harehills area, and oversee the launch of a local enterprise hub at Leeds Media Centre which is currently undergoing a £1.8 million refurbishment in partnership with Leeds City Council and the European Regional Development Fund.
The building is one of three business centres operated by Unity Enterprise close to Leeds city centre which collectively offer 142 affordable business units for more than 80 diverse businesses.
Reporting to Unity Enterprise Manager Adrian Green, Mr Altoro has extensive experience of supporting start-ups, existing businesses, community organisations and social enterprises.
Richard Altoro (right) with Adrian Green at Unity Business Centre in Chapeltown
He has previously worked for Unity as a Business Advisor for Unity Enterprise and Leeds Chamber of Commerce, supporting start-ups and SMEs with business planning, cashflow forecasts, sourcing finance, copywriting, marketing, branding and social media strategies.
Richard Altoro said: “It is an exciting time to be joining Unity Enterprise with the Leeds Media Centre redevelopment scheme due for completion next summer. This will significantly expand capacity with 12 new business units, in addition to a bespoke business hub with hi-tech virtual facilities and meeting areas.
“My mission is to deliver a major boost to the enterprise culture in Chapeltown through the provision of professional support to enable aspiring local entrepreneurs to succeed.
“Whether you are a start-up or existing business, I am happy to offer support and insights to help grow your business.”
Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “We are more than a housing association. Guided by our social purpose, we are driven to empower people to improve their lives by creating economic opportunities. Unity Enterprise is central to this.
“We are particularly keen to reach out and provide support and assistance to local people who want to set up their own business and have the talent to succeed but have not yet been given that chance.
“Richard possesses a wealth of business experience and expertise which will be invaluable to the entrepreneurs of today and tomorrow.
“He is an excellent fit for the role. I have no doubt that Richard’s impact will be quickly felt, not just locally, but across the wider Leeds and West Yorkshire business community.”