Investment in skills and innovation key for levelling-up and post-pandemic prosperity, says new CBI Yorkshire & Humber Chair

Business and Government must work together to increase skills investment in Yorkshire and the Humber if the region is to emerge strongly post-pandemic and build future prosperity, according to the CBI’s incoming regional chair.

Jane Madeley – Chief Financial Officer at the University of Leeds – has been named as the next Chair of the CBI Yorkshire & Humber Regional Council.

She will take up the role in January, replacing Jacqui Hall of gas shipper CNG Ltd, who has held the position for the past two years.

Yorkshire-born Jane brings extensive knowledge of the region and business, having worked for a number of firms in the retail and consumer goods sectors prior to moving into the higher education sector. She has been part of the CBI’s regional council since 2011.

Jane will be taking on her new role at a challenging time for businesses in Yorkshire and the Humber, but believes the CBI can play a crucial part in helping the region navigate its way through the continued economic ravages of the pandemic and to build an equitable and prosperous future.

Jane Madeley, incoming Chair of CBI Yorkshire & Humber Regional Council, said:

“I am thrilled to be appointed Chair of the CBI’s Yorkshire & Humber Regional Council, and I look forward to working with fellow council members and business leaders across the region to meet the ongoing challenge of building the regional economy in the face of the pandemic.

“This is a region of immense potential, rich in talent and ambition and well positioned to play a significant role in the UK’s push to net zero. However action is needed to address long-term challenges around skills, and invest in the necessary infrastructure to enable innovation to flourish – vital issues at the heart of levelling-up ambitions.

“Overcoming these challenges will take partnership between business, education and Government. Business is ready to step up, and I look forward to working with CBI colleagues to be a voice for the region in the critical conversations to come around levelling-up, economic growth and decarbonisation.”

Beckie Hart, CBI Yorkshire & the Humber Director, said:

“I’m delighted to confirm that Jane will be the new Chair of the CBI Yorkshire and the Humber Regional Council. She takes over from Jacqui Hall, who has done a stellar job of steering the council through a tough two years, and stands down with our thanks.

“Jane will bring a wealth of knowledge of the region and insight into the issues that matter to businesses. Her expertise will be a major asset for businesses and for the CBI as we look to build upon Yorkshire and the Humber’s diverse strengths to drive forward the strategies for growth set out in the CBI’s Seize The Moment economic vision. I look forward to working with her to achieve these goals.”