CBI North East Council Chairs Aim To Seize Regional Growth Opportunities And Boost Workforce

The North East is well placed to compete in global growth markets of the future, whether that’s on net zero, advance manufacturing or medical technologies. To seize these opportunities, it’s crucial that the incoming regional mayors focus on ‘boosting the skills and talent’ of the region’s workforce.

That is the view of newly appointed Vice Chair, Dr Charlotte Carpenter – executive director at Karbon Homes – shared by CBI North East Chair Frank Millar – chief executive at CPI.

At a pivotal time for the region – during which there will be mayoral elections for the Tees Valley and North East – the CBI Council is focused on advocating for the importance of the region’s talent pipeline. Speaking on behalf of industry, Charlotte and Frank will encourage local and combined authorities to bring partners together to develop the region’s skills base to unlock economic growth.

In its regional mayoral manifestos, due to launch later in March, the CBI identifies the labour market as a key challenge for businesses. Mr Millar has long championed the importance of STEM skills for the North East and the need to retain highly skilled individuals in the area. Dr Carpenter has equally advocated for breaking down barriers to entering the workforce, and has spearheaded projects that connect industry with individuals furthest from the labour market, helping them develop the skills required by local business through paid work placements.

Frank continues his role as CBI North East Chair as the business community across the UK braces for a General Election as well as mayoral elections. Bolstering its regional voice, the CBI is delighted to welcome Dr Charlotte Carpenter, executive director of growth and business development at Karbon Homes, as Vice Chair for the North East, ready to become Regional Chair for 2025 and 2026.

Further strengthening its influence, the CBI has welcomed several additional regional councillors from 2024, including: Nolan Gray, strategic director AtkinsRealis; Alison Gwynn, CEO North East Screen; Leanne Chambers, managing director NRG; Angus White, managing partner Naylors Gavin Black; Sarah O’Mahoney, director Bradley O’Mahoney; Tony Lewin, executive principal NCG; Harry Wickham, managing director Gate7; and Nik Turner, executive director Believe Housing.

Matt Bratton, CBI North East Acting Regional Director, said:

“We are delighted that Charlotte will be joining Frank to lead our regional council. At a national level, both will bring a strong voice for the North East on key policy making decisions. And in the region, they will be instrumental in keeping business priorities – such as the North East talent pipeline – at the forefront for regional growth.”

Frank Millar, CBI North East Chair, said:

“Charlotte’s leadership and deep insights on the needs of business in the region have already influenced the work of the North East regional council and I am delighted that she is taking up the role of Vice Chair. In such a crucial year for businesses in the North East, this appointment will strengthen our contribution to the CBI’s national policy development and ensure that we continue to make a positive difference through the many fantastic businesses in the North East.”

Dr Charlotte Carpenter, new CBI North East Vice Chair, said:

“The North East is a great place for businesses to grow and thrive, and with support and investment from the regional mayors to boost skills and workforce development, they can continue to go from strength to strength. I’m really pleased to take on this new role, representing the business community’s voice in the North East and advocating for policies which will help businesses, communities and households in the region maximise their economic potential as part of an inclusive growth approach.”