Business leaders to play a key role in Rotherham’s economic growth

Even through difficult economic conditions, Rotherham businesses continue to make things and export them, inward investment has continued to come in, innovative smaller companies continue to expand, an enterprising culture is being fostered, and the borough is at the heart of high growth, hi-tech sectors.

Rotherham has been rebalancing its economy long before it became a mantra in Whitehall and Rotherham's strong manufacturing base means that the economy is ready to grow from strong foundations.

Rotherham's reputation as a location for world leaders in advanced manufacturing was boosted again recently as The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) with Boeing and the Nuclear AMRC were named as part of the country's first multi-million pound Technology and Innovation Centre (TIC).

The Advanced Manufacturing Park in Rotherham, where the two centres are based, has a global reputation for engineering, innovation, research and manufacturing excellence and is positioned to become the UK's first Manufacturing Growth Hub.

The approach to enterprise development is also not going unnoticed. Rotherham currently holds the title of the most enterprising place in Britain, recognising the borough's complete package that inspires children about business as soon as they start school, raises aspirations and provides all the support young people need to make their business dreams a reality.

The Rotherham Economy Board is being created to build on the success of these world-leading assets. It will lead the strategic direction of Rotherham's economy, working closely with the Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and Rotherham Local Strategic Partnership (LSP).

The private-sector led board will become a driver for growth, innovation and enterprise in the Rotherham economy and will provide direction and drive forward actions to support enterprise, increase business opportunities, secure investment and create additional jobs.

Brian Chapple, Chair of the Rotherham Local Strategic Partnership said: "The environment within which Local Strategic Partnerships operate continues to experience a period of change. What has not changed is the fact that the economy and economic development in Rotherham is high on our agenda.

"The Rotherham Economy Board is an exciting opportunity for a new business-led approach and I look forward to passionate representatives of industry and enterprise working together to play a key role in shaping our future economic success.

"We are looking for board members that want to make a difference, help our economy to grow and ensure local people are able to benefit from and contribute to that growth."

Recruitment is now underway for a private sector chair and business representatives to sit on the board. If you are interested in becoming part of this exciting new venture, please send an email to rachel.blake@rotherham.gov.uk

The Rotherham Partnership Board is a non-statutory body which is comprised of leaders from across the private, public, voluntary and community sectors in Rotherham. It exists to provide strong, shared leadership for the delivery of Rotherham's Community Strategy.