North Wales Economic Ambition Board search for chair to lead new business delivery group ahead of £1bn Deal

THE new chair of an influential Business Delivery Board will help shape the Growth Vision for North Wales.

North Wales Economic Ambition Board is searching for a private sector representative to lead the forum on industry matters.

The Business Delivery Board will act as the voice of key employers across the region, feeding into the Ambition Board as it works to deliver the seven strategic programmes that make up the £1bn North Wales Growth Deal.

These will cover low carbon energy, advanced manufacturing, land-based industries (agriculture and tourism), land and property, skills and employment, digital connectivity, and strategic transport, and will have a positive impact on tens of thousands of households, companies and organisations from 2020 onwards.

Cllr Dyfrig Siencyn, chair of the Ambition Board and Leader of Gwynedd Council, said the chair will act as a “vital link” between business and the six local authorities, colleges and universities in North Wales.

“We are looking for someone with extensive experience of the private sector who can act as an ambassador for the business community and be their voice in the decision-making process as we move forward,” said Cllr Siencyn.

“The Growth Vision for North Wales is a key driver of the economy, and the private sector is a huge part of that, so this is a very important position.

“Businesses have been consulted throughout, but this will give them even more of an opportunity to review and challenge the delivery of programmes and projects, advise on maximising the impact of the Growth Deal and promoting the region as a prime investor and visitor location.”

He added: “The Business Delivery Board itself is crucial, ensuring the voice and needs of industry are heard.

“They will have a pivotal role in supporting and influencing the Growth Vision for North Wales and delivery of the £1bn Growth Deal.”

The Business Delivery Board will include representatives from a variety of arenas, from engineering and manufacturing to tourism and retail, who will optimise private sector opportunities within the Growth Deal and seek to promote investment leverage.

The search comes as North Wales Economic Ambition Board looks set to finalise Heads of Terms for the Growth Deal and announce a new Programme Director.

They are also recruiting for a Digital Programme Manager, an Energy Programme Manager, a Land and Property Programme Manager and an Operations Manager to the Programme Office.

To apply for the position of chair of the Business Delivery Board, visit the website: northwaleseab.co.uk/business-delivery-board. Closing date for applications is September 27.