Members sought for new business advisory board

Representatives from across the region are being sought to help strengthen ties between the East Midlands Combined County Authority and local businesses.

EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board, which will be chaired by David Williams, chairman of law firm Geldards, will provide strategy, advice and guidance to the main EMCCA Board, chaired by Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward and EMCCA’s committees.

It will help ensure the experience and knowledge of regional businesses is harnessed when making decisions around the economy, skills, transport, housing and the transition to net-zero.

David said: “I’m committed to raising the economic prosperity of our region and through this board we will build a strong partnership between the public and private sector and ensure that the benefits of devolution can be realised across the region.

“We need experienced individuals to join the board who are willing to share their insights to help guide the work of the new combined county authority.”

EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board will include 16 members, including representatives from the private and public sector and East Midlands Chamber.

Private sector representatives will include experts from large businesses, small and medium enterprises and sectors with a significant chance of attracting further investment.

Members of the board will be expected to have a good understanding of the East Midlands region and the business sectors that operate within it, experience of leadership roles in business and understand the challenges faced by businesses.

Mayor Claire Ward said: “It is vital that we bring together representatives from across the business community to help shape the future direction of the East Midlands.

“Our region is home to a huge range of businesses from global manufacturers through to small high street retailers and through this board we can shape policies and support programmes that will drive growth across our region.”