‘We are realistic enough to know that our role is changing and that we need to change with it’
The woman recently tasked with leading the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) says the organisation can continue to play a big part in supporting the local economy despite question marks over the future of LEPs.
New LLEP head Sue Tilley stepped into the role in March following the departure of chief executive Mandip Rai. She was already a well known figure on the local business scene having headed up inward investment for Prospect Leicestershire and then the LLEP, prior to becoming its boss of economic strategy, then head of business and innovation.
Before that she had a career in fashion and textiles, including her own business making corporate clothing – providing her with experience in one of the key industrial sectors the city and county are famous for.
Asked about the question she has been asked most since starting in the new job she said: “It’s ‘What is the future of LEPs?’. There’s understandable uncertainty about what the future holds for all 38 LEPs.
“Government set out earlier this year its intention to integrate LEPs into local democratic institutions so that there’s an independent business voice in local authorities.
“The exact nature of that remains unclear but could include functions such as growth hubs, careers hubs, skills partnerships and strategic planning. We’ve since been managing budgets and shaping outputs accordingly.
“The situation is very uncertain, both regionally and nationally. We are realistic enough to know that our role is changing and that we need to change with it. But, like Government, we recognise that change will not happen overnight.
“In the meantime, we will continue providing a voice for business while working closely with all our partners.
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