The appointment is on a one-year interim basis to help mobilise the new Board, which has been created following the integration of Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) functions into Suffolk County Council.
The Business Board has been established to represent the local business community, to help steer Suffolk’s economic strategy and to help create a stronger and higher-skilled economy for Suffolk.
Mr Pendlington has worked across the public and private sectors in industry, national and regional voluntary organisations, further and higher education, economic development bodies and academia, and also served as the High Sheriff of Suffolk from 2023-24.
Mr Pendlington said:
“The Suffolk economy is full of innovation, ideas and entrepreneurship. Many world-class businesses are located here, together with thousands more with big ambitions for growth. The new Suffolk Business Board will build on the strong legacy of the New Anglia LEP and its programmes and investments that have secured inward investment, improved skills and new jobs. Drawing on senior expertise, including from business, education, local authorities and the voluntary sector, the new Board will help to drive growth and opportunity across the Suffolk economy. I am delighted to have been invited to help get the Board up and running, and to work with the County Council to help make Suffolk a powerhouse of opportunity and one of the best locations in the UK to live, work and learn.”
Cllr Matthew Hicks, leader of Suffolk County Council, will serve as deputy chair.
Cllr Hicks said:
“Mark Pendlington’s extensive experience will be invaluable as we launch the new Suffolk Business Board, which will be a strong voice of business in Suffolk. Together we will develop a programme to support business growth and skills in the county and create new economic opportunities for our residents and businesses.”
Recruitment is underway for the rest of the Board, which will include representatives from business, education, and Suffolk’s other local authorities.
The Business Board will be supported by Suffolk County Council’s Economic Development team, which includes officers who have transferred into the council from the LEP.
