Member Article

Mayor wants digital leaders to back Tees Valley economic transformation plans

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen is seeking the backing of business leaders, especially those who hail from a digital background, to support the Tees Valley Combined Authority’s (TVCA) economic transformation programme.

Hoping to galvanise involvement, the Mayor said: “With a wealth of local business talent at our fingertips, the potential for calling on invaluable expert knowledge to help the continued growth of the Tees Valley economy is huge.

“We would like to hear voices from the key digital sector in particular, with SMEs also vital to our plans. This is an opportunity not only for the Combined Authority but also for visionary business leaders to shape their own future and ensure the prosperity of their region.”

The Tees Valley Local Enterprise Partnership, chaired by Paul Booth, works alongside Mr Houchen, the TVCA and the wider business community to rollout a collective growth drive in the region.

The Partnership’s network collaborates to assist in supporting strategies for skills and employment, improving transport infrastructure, promoting finance for business and encouraging inward investors to the Tees Valley.

At present, the LEP is actively seeking seeking applications from business leaders in the digital sector who could support programmes and voice the views of those operating in one of the region’s fastest growing sectors.

Paul Booth, Tees Valley Local Enterprise Partnership Chairman, added: “In the past year, we have seen a number of huge milestones in our drive for a locally-led approach to economic development and the role of our business leaders in this is critical for its success.

“Significant progress has been made by the Partnership this year and we are now reaching out to make sure our pool of expertise is as diverse as possible. I would encourage anyone who thinks they can make this essential contribution to the area to put themselves forward.”