intu Lakeside has announced that it has appointed Hana Gunfield as the centre’s first Community Development Manager.

Hana has a vast range of experience including experiential marketing, strategic planning and branding, making her new role at the growing centre a fantastic opportunity to build intu Lakeside’s interaction with the local community.

Hana has over seven years’ experience managing projects and events at companies including Orsett Hall.

Hana’s initial focus will be to help those on intu Lakeside’s doorstep, and to give something back to the local community in Thurrock and the surrounding areas.

This includes participating in Thurrock’s Next Top Boss as well as First Give with both campaigns supporting local students and helping to build a positive future for teenagers.

intu is currently working on a project to ensure that all intu properties are autism friendly and Hana’s role will play a huge part in the success of this campaign which is due to be launched during 2017.

Hana Gunfield, said: “I am delighted to have joined intu Lakeside and to be able to make a difference in our surrounding communities.

“I am already fully involved with the centre and look forward to continuing this work, including launching our chosen charity partner in March that we will be supporting this year.

“At intu Lakeside we are extremely lucky to be surrounded by such wonderful communities I can’t wait to give something back and make a difference.

“I have no doubt that over the coming years, intu Lakeside will make a difference to the lives of many.”

Ben Leeson, Marketing Manager at intu Lakeside, added: “It’s great to have Hana join the team and we look forward to working with our local community even closer.

“Hana has made a fantastic addition and we look forward to seeing what she has in store for the centre.”