Top local entrepreneurs help plan boost to Midlands’ economy

A group of renowned entrepreneurs and business leaders from across the Midlands has been convened by Communities Secretary and Midlands Engine Ministerial Champion The Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP today (9th February) as part of the Government’s ambitious agenda to level up the regions.

The Midlands Engine Business Council had around 30 top business leaders from across the region and was co-chaired by Mr Jenrick and Midlands Engine Chairman Sir John Peace. Attendees included:

• Ben Francis who has grown Gymshark into a billion-pound brand
• Liv Garfield who brings almost 7 years’ experience as CEO of Severn Trent
• Steve Scrimshaw, vice president of Siemens Energy who started his career as an apprentice in the energy sector and now brings over 40 years’ industry experience

Together they discussed ambitious plans to deliver jobs, skills and investment throughout the Midlands as we build back better and grasp opportunities outside of European Union.

The industry leaders discussed how to overcome challenges posed by the pandemic and committed to working closer together to grow the global footprint of the Midlands as the region plans to build back better.

The Midlands is set to be centre stage with Coventry as the 2021 UK City of Culture and Birmingham hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Communities Secretary and Midlands Engine Champion Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said:

Since the Industrial Revolution, the Midlands has been a major driving force of the UK economy. The region has led the way in industries as diverse as automotive, medtech, aerospace and finance and is home to many famous British brands. This proud tradition of innovation will play a key part in Britain’s global agenda and post-pandemic recovery. That is why I am proud to be bringing together such an impressive group providing a stronger voice for businesses across the Midlands as we work together to boost prosperity across the region.

Chairman of the Midlands Engine Partnership, Sir John Peace said:

Our Business Council will provide challenge, embed the voice of industry in our strategic planning and act as a valued conduit for industry to Government exchange, focused on the needs of the Midlands. It will be an important part of our work in partnership as together we take bold steps towards recovery and green growth, for every part of the Midlands Engine.

The council met for the first time today and will meet every six months to collaborate on how best to drive growth and productivity throughout the Midlands and help level up the region, making it an even better place to live, work, study and do business.

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