Chris Dungworth Announces Retirement from Business Doncaster

Chris began his journey with Doncaster Council in July 2003 as a Supply Chain Officer in the Investment Team, supporting businesses through the “Buy Local” initiative. After a brief departure in 2004 to join Renaissance South Yorkshire, he returned to the Council in 2008 to lead the Investment Team. Over the years, Chris played a pivotal role in shaping Doncaster’s economic landscape, culminating in his appointment as Head of Service for Business Doncaster in 2018.

Reflecting on his tenure, Chris shared, “It has been a privilege to witness and contribute to Doncaster’s incredible growth and transformation. From initial plans to tangible developments like the Airport, Lakeside, the iPort, and the Unity Project, Doncaster has truly become a beacon for business and community success.”

During his 16 years with Doncaster Council, Chris has been instrumental in several landmark projects and achievements:

• Securing Amazon's Arrival in Doncaster (2010), leading to the creation of over 4,000 local jobs.
• Driving Doncaster Tourism Development, including the growth of Yorkshire Wildlife Park and establishing the popular ‘Visit Doncaster’ brand.
• Supporting Doncaster Sheffield Airport, from its opening in 2005, through its closure in 2022, and its upcoming reopening in 2025.
• Helping Secure Doncaster’s City Status in 2022, following two dedicated bid campaigns.
• Attracting Foreign Investment, leading to Doncaster being named the Best Small City in Europe for Foreign Direct Investment (2022/23).
• Growing the Doncaster Business Showcase, now Yorkshire’s largest business exhibition, celebrating its 15th year.

Under Chris’s leadership, Doncaster has seen £2.21 billion in new investment and the creation or safeguarding of 16,949 jobs since 2008.

“I’ve been fortunate to work alongside extraordinary colleagues, visionary leaders, and a talented team who have made a real difference to Doncaster businesses and residents every day,” Chris added. “Their support and dedication have been invaluable, and I thank them wholeheartedly.”

Damian Allen, Chief Executive of City of Doncaster Council, paid tribute to Chris’s remarkable career, saying: “On behalf of the Council, I wish to thank you for your phenomenal contribution, commitment, and service to Doncaster. We all wish you the very best for your retirement in the sun.”

Looking ahead, Chris plans to retire to the sun with his wife, where he will embrace new adventures, including golf, travel, and growing his podcast.

“Doncaster is the best place to do business, and I leave with immense pride in all that has been achieved,” Chris said. “I’m excited for what lies ahead, but I will always cherish my time here.”

For anyone wishing to contact the Business Doncaster team please do so via info@businessdoncaster.com or call 01302 735555.