From 1 April 2024, the Government will no longer be funding Local Enterprise Partnership, including the New Anglia LEP. New Anglia LEP functions will be transferred to Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils from that date. These functions include business representation, strategic economic planning, and responsibility for the delivery of government economy and skills programmes.
We are currently working closely with New Anglia LEP to manage an orderly transition and ensure that we continue to deliver for the County under the new arrangements.
Alongside this, Suffolk County Council is inviting applications for a new Suffolk Business Board which aims to drive economic growth in the county. The Suffolk Business Board will succeed the existing New Anglia LEP Board which ceases on 1 April.
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.
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.”
