Lawrence was invited to serve as a Deputy Lieutenant due to his significant community contribution to the region. As well as serving as a Southside BID director since 2011, Lawrence is managing director of GB training, one of the UK’s largest work-based learning providers, Festival Director for Birmingham Pride, and commissioner on the West Midlands Combined Authority Leadership Commission.

As a Deputy Lieutenant, Lawrence will support John Crabtree OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, in his own time in a variety of ways including; attending on Royalty during official visits to the region, promoting nominations for Honours and Queen’s Awards for the county of the West Midlands, as well as encouraging charitable and voluntary work and local initiatives to benefit the community.

Commenting on his appointment, Lawrence said: “I am proud and absolutely delighted to be appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant and very much look forward to giving back to our fantastic region, particularly by highlighting the important role played by voluntary organisations and shining a spotlight on underrepresented voices. It is a real honor to have the opportunity to serve the West Midlands in this way.”

Julia Robinson, Southside BID manager, commented: “As well as being committed to supporting and helping our district in so many ways, Lawrence plays a vital role in giving a voice to the businesses and communities within Southside and across the region.