Influencing decisions The Greater Essex Business Board (GEBB) exists to influence economic growth policies at both local and national level. GEBB will provide strategic advice to political decision-makers in Greater Essex on the issues that matter most to businesses in the region. It will have the freedom and autonomy to set its own agenda, using evidence to develop, articulate and advocate for its own positions on key issues. Its advice will help in setting the strategic direction for local economic policy, including producing and updating an Economic Strategy for Greater Essex.
Advocating for business The GEBB will provide the authoritative and authentic voice of business in Greater Essex, with the confidence to speak and be heard. The board will develop robust mechanisms to engage with businesses across Greater Essex, listening, gathering intelligence and using this as a basis to inform its work with decision-makers. The GEBB will develop connections, with local, regional and national business networks. It will champion Greater Essex – helping it stand out and compete.
Delivering impact The GEBB will oversee activities that support Greater Essex business, including Growth Hub business support and skills programme (with Essex Chamber of Commerce). It will focus its attention on securing new investment in Greater Essex, supporting and advocating for: Key growth sectors Key sites Vital infrastructure Workforce skills
The GEBB will: Convene business interests from across Greater Essex, the UK and the globe to gain the best insight into local challenges and potential solutions. Focus on outcomes and the action required to deliver them, rather than on formal meetings, process and paperwork. Work in the open promoting transparency to work to build support and momentum from across Greater Essex business. Partner with those who have shared interests and can help influence decisions to the benefit of Essex businesses – whoever and wherever they may be.
The GEBB will not: Work to an agenda constrained by local councils. Simply rubber-stamp decisions that have already been taken. Have lots of board meetings and spend time just receiving information. Duplicate the work of existing local business groups. Waste time and energy on issue where it cannot secure impact. Shy away from delivering difficult messages to those in power. Increase bureaucracy or act as a gatekeeper; or Act in isolation.
