Applications open for new Suffolk Business Board

Inspirational and influential local businesspeople are sought to form the board, which will represent the local business community and will help steer the local economic strategy to create a stronger and higher-skilled economy for Suffolk.

The board will meet 4-6 times a year to help shape economic strategy and priorities for Suffolk, to oversee delivery of funded programmes such as business support and skills training for Suffolk, and to work closely with partners such as District councils, neighbouring counties and national economic and trade bodies.

The county council is seeking candidates who represent the diversity of Suffolk’s people and economy, whether that be sector, geography or business type.

Expressions of interest should be emailed to businessboard@suffolk.gov.uk by Friday 22 March, with a short biography or CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the opportunity and what area(s) of expertise you feel you could bring. A briefing pack with more information can be downloaded below. 

Board membership is a voluntary position and terms are for up to three years from the date of appointment. The Business Board will be supported by a dedicated team of council officers.

Cllr Richard Smith MVO, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Skills, Transport Strategy and Waste, said:

“The new Suffolk Business Board will be a forum for business, education and local political leaders to shape a compelling economic strategy and identity for Suffolk, attract new investment and act as an advocate for Suffolk’s economy at a national level.

“Successful candidates will be the voice of business in Suffolk, and their knowledge and experience will be invaluable in creating a stronger economy and better jobs for our county.”

The establishment of the Business Board follows the Government’s announcement in 2023 that Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) would be integrated into upper tier local authorities. The Suffolk Business Board will succeed the existing New Anglia LEP Board which ceases on 31 March 2024.