South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority has unveiled the membership of its new Business Advisory Board, which is committed to growing South Yorkshire’s economy and driving business growth in the region.
The Board will be co-chaired by Louisa Harrison-Walker, representing the three South Yorkshire Chambers of Commerce, and Tariq Shah OBE, Director of the Vigo Group – a leading, sustainability-driven, transformational property enterprise. Both are leading South Yorkshire’s business revolution.
Members of the Board are:
- Co-chair: Louisa Harrison-Walker representing the three South Yorkshire Chambers (Barnsley & Rotherham, Doncaster, and Sheffield)
- Co-chair: Tariq Shah, Director, Vigo Group
- Rachel Abbott representing the Cutlers, South Yorkshire International Trade Forum, Manufacturers Forum and Made In Sheffield
- Dawn Huntrod representing MakeUK
- Paula Gouldthorpe representing the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
- Angela Foulkes representing the South Yorkshire Skills Advisory Board (SYSAB)
- Liz Blackshaw representing the Northern Trade Union Congress
- Sherry Kothari, Chief Executive, Plasma 4
- Roz Davies, Chief Executive, Green Estate
- David Cross, Chief Executive and Architect, Sky-House
- Richard Gould, Sales Director, Metlase
- Ken Perritt FCILT, Senior Director, GXO Logistics
South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard said: “I’m hugely excited to launch our new Business Advisory Board. South Yorkshire’s economy has been too small for too long, and fixing that problem is central to my ambitions as Mayor.
“I couldn’t be more pleased to have such a brilliant group of people to work with in addressing that challenge. It’s a brilliant group of people that showcases the immense, diverse talent we have across the region. The Business Advisory Board will play a vital role in our plans to turbo charge economic growth, offering both advice and insight, helping me to restore the pride, purpose and prosperity of South Yorkshire.”
Tariq Shah said: “As someone proudly from Doncaster, I am delighted to have been appointed to SYMCA’s Business Advisory Board. This group demonstrates SYMCA’s commitment to fostering economic growth and prosperity.
“The board’s diverse composition, featuring leaders from various industries and business stages, reflects an inclusive and collaborative spirit. I commend Mayor Oliver Coppard and SYMCA for prioritising not only business success but also improving lives equitably, aligning with Vigo Group’s values.
“The recent designation of South Yorkshire as the UK’s first Investment Zone positions the region on a global stage. I believe the Business Advisory Board will play a pivotal role in capitalising on this momentum, driving business success nationally and internationally.
“I am optimistic about the transformative impact the board will have on our local businesses and communities. This is a commendable step towards ensuring that SYMCA’s efforts align with the evolving needs of our dynamic region. I express my gratitude to SYMCA and Mayor Oliver Coppard for their dedication to South Yorkshire’s economic and social well-being.”
