About Business South | Business South

Introduction

Business South is an independent representative of businesses in the Central South supporting the region’s prosperity by bringing together business leaders, educators, public bodies and entrepreneurs to create a dominant and powerful force for growth and innovation.

Together we are stronger and in close collaboration with the region’s top employers, business leaders, public bodies and education. We have a shared vision to raise the profile of the Central South.

The Team

Our Work

Discover how our work is shaping the future of the Central South, driving innovation and fostering collaboration across diverse sectors. Delve into our projects and initiatives that are not only setting the agenda for business excellence but also making a lasting impact on the community.

Learn More

Mission, Vision & Values

Mission

Business South is an independent representative of businesses in the Central South of England, supporting the prosperity of the region by bringing together business leaders, educators, public bodies and entrepreneurs to create a dominant and powerful force for ‘good’ growth and innovation.

Vision

To be known as the leading independent engagement organisation for the Central South UK region, at the forefront of excellence in championing positive change for our region and the whole country.

Values

Our company values are

Trust – we will build trust with our Champions, centre tenants and key stakeholders by delivering what is expected with clear objectives and outcomes. Our strength is our personability.

Accountability – we tackle issues head on in partnership with all stakeholders from both the public and private sector and work collaboratively to find solutions

Diligence – we see projects through to completion and demonstrate the tangible benefits

Representation

While Business South is an engagement organisation and proud to promote the Central South both nationally and internationally, we do not profess to represent the 100+ businesses and organisations that support us. Therefore, some may hold alternative views to the ones we lobby and promote. Our Governance procedure ensures all white papers, campaigns and initiatives are reviewed and signed off by our board before publishing.

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Collaboration

We believe in the power of collaboration and recognise that working together produces better outcomes than working in isolation. We encourage businesses, industry leaders, and stakeholders to come together, share knowledge and expertise, and collaborate on projects and initiatives that benefit the entire region.

Innovation

We understand the importance of embracing innovation to stay competitive in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. We promote a culture of innovation, encouraging Champions and business leaders to adopt new technologies, explore creative solutions to challenges, and embrace forward-thinking strategies to drive growth and success.

Integrity

We operate with the utmost integrity and ethical standards. We value transparency, honesty, and accountability. We believe in fostering an environment of trust and respect, ensuring that Champions and stakeholders can rely on us to act in their best interests and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.

Inclusivity and Diversity

We believe in the power of diversity and inclusivity. We strive to create an inclusive business community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or social status. It is important to recognise that diversity drives innovation and fosters a rich exchange of ideas, ultimately contributing to the success and growth of the Central South region.

Advocacy

As a representative body for major employers in the Central South, we are committed to advocating for the interests of Champions and the region’s business community. Through the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for the Central South and Action Groups, we actively engage with policymakers, government entities, and other stakeholders to ensure that the voice of the business community is heard and considered in decision-making processes. We serve as a platform for businesses to collectively address challenges, shape regional strategies, and advocate for policies that promote economic growth and sustainability.

Business Excellence

We are dedicated to delivering high-quality services, projects and events that meet the needs and expectations of our Champions and stakeholders. By maintaining high standards of excellence, Business South aims to provide value, contribute to Champion’s success, and elevate the overall business environment in the Central South.

The Region

The Central South is a hub of innovation and economic prosperity, boasting a diverse array of industries from technology to maritime. As an area rich in talent and resources, it serves as a prime location for business investment, making it a focal point for both national and international growth.

Explore the Region

The Business South Team

Tim Hancock

Chair

Business South

Leigh-Sara Timberlake

Group CEO

Business South

Kevin Muldoon

Enterprise Manager

Business South

Shirley Wynne-Jones

Event Director

Business South

Kate Pearce

Head of Strategy

Business South

Natalie Hunt

Operations Manager

Business South

Susan George

Business Advisor

Business South

Jade Bristow

Administration Assistant

Business South

The Business South Board

With expertise across a broad range of industry sectors and specialisms, the Business South Group Board of Directors is made up of some of the region’s top business minds.

As Non-Executive Directors, their role and responsibility is to support and drive the organisation to deliver it’s aims and objectives on behalf of Champions across the Central South.

Meet the Board of Directors