Norfolk Business Board ushers in new era of support for the region's economy

A Norfolk Business Board tasked with developing a vibrant economy, helping local companies to succeed and ensuring the region has the necessary skills and infrastructure has met for the first time.

Representing a wide range of backgrounds, including agri-food, clean energy, creative industries and financial services, the board's members were chosen from almost 70 applications and will help oversee an ambitious, evidence-based economic strategy for Norfolk. 

Meeting four to six times a year, they will give their time to deliver the board's vision for inclusive economic growth, in partnership with business, education, the voluntary sector and local authorities. The first meeting was held on Thursday 26 September at Hethel Engineering, near Norwich.

Norfolk Business Board was set up earlier this year following the integration of New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership into Norfolk County Council and Suffolk County Council. This resulted from a central government decision in April 2023.

Cllr Kay Mason-Billig, Leader of Norfolk County Council, said: "Norfolk's economy has huge potential for growth, and we need to provide the right growing conditions with an environment that is vibrant, entrepreneurial, inclusive and sustainable.

"The Board will collaborate with partners to support the economy with the right jobs, skills, training, and infrastructure, and work well for our businesses and people, giving everyone the best opportunities to succeed."

Nick Steven-Jones, CEO of Jarrold and who was appointed chairman at the meeting, said: "I am very pleased and proud to be elected chair of the newly formed Norfolk Business Board. It is a great opportunity for representation of businesses and councils in driving the Norfolk economy forward in a way its vibrancy and entrepreneurial nature deserves. We look forward to delivering tangible progress on the plans and achieving a real impact and benefit for the whole of Norfolk."

Norfolk Business Board's members are:

• Charlie Wright, Chief Customer Officer, Epos Now
• Prof David Maguire, Vice-Chancellor, UEA
• Denise Hone, Senior Stakeholder Manager, RWE
• Mark Gorton, Managing Director, Traditional Norfolk Poultry
• Nick Steven-Jones, CEO, Jarrold
• Nova Fairbank, CEO, Norfolk Chambers of Commerce
• Paul Padda, Principal and CEO, East Coast College
• Robin Milton, Founder, Fairer Games
• Stephen Crocker, CEO & Creative Director, Norwich Theatre
• Amy Griffiths, CEO, Diss & Thetford District, Citizens Advice
• Candy Richards, Development Manager (East Anglia), Federation of Small Businesses (alternate)
• Lucy Hogg, Director of Voluntary Infrastructure, Voluntary Norfolk (alternate)

The board also includes the leaders or appointed representatives of all eight local authorities.

To find out more about the work of Norfolk Business Board, visit www.norfolkbusinessboard.co.uk