Business leaders from across the Central South gathered at the Business South Annual Conference for a wide-ranging agenda that covered everything from the significance of the aerospace and defence sector to the prosperity of our region to the difference the new Hampshire and Solent Combined County Authority is already making.
The conference was the culmination of a year of activity to mark the 20th anniversary of Business South, and Group CEO Leigh-Sara Timberlake said a future focus for the organisation would continue to be working collaboratively on the skills agenda supporting the extensive work that Hampshire Chamber has delivered via the Local Skills Plan, Jodi Fair for Solent Growth Partnership, and Katie Bruce leading the Maritime and Transport Careers Programme.
“We can work towards achieving ‘NEET Zero’. As business leaders, we all have a role to play by responding to every job application, even if the answer is ‘no’, and providing feedback wherever we can.” Said Leigh-Sara Timberlake.
The Central South is home to a world-class defence and aerospace sector, with outstanding strengths in innovation, engineering, technology, and highly skilled talent; the sector is worth an estimated £1.5 billion in Hampshire alone.
Our panel discussion with Sir Julian Young – Retired RAF Air Marshall, Jeremy Greaves – Head of Strategic Engagement and Heritage – Airbus Defence and Space UK, Hugh Griffiths – Former military aviator, turned entrepreneur, turned angel investor, Chrissie Miller – Head of Defence & External Business, NATS, James Knowles – Vice Chancellor, Southampton Solent University, and John Boughton – Managing Director, Kier Construction, Southern, tackled key issues affecting the sector.
The discussion was hosted by Stephen Anderson – Partner, Womble Bond Dickinson and topics included the importance of the defence and aerospace sector to the Central South, the skills needed to support future growth and the opportunities that the mayoral authority will bring to the region and sector.
Defence and Aerospace Panel during Business South Annual Conference
Skills were high on the agenda, and delegates took part in a session led by Alice Gray – Senior Manager for Apprenticeships and Employer Relations, University of Portsmouth and Cliff Kinch, Area Director, Morgan Sindall Construction to identify solutions for talent and retention in the region.
Katie Bruce, Engagement Officer for the Maritime and Transport Careers Programme, shared details of a new initiative to encourage more businesses to open their doors to young people so they can better understand the career opportunities on their doorstep. Futures Forward will make it easy for businesses to host a workplace experience and shine a light on their sector.
Ruth Adams, CEO, Hampshire & The Solent Combined County Authority, gave an overview of the Combined Authority’s roles and responsibilities and how this will benefit businesses and the region.
“Through the delivery of the Regional Growth Plan, we have an opportunity to develop a clear, shared purpose and a collective ambition for the future. We already have a region with tremendous strengths, ambitious businesses and significant opportunities for growth. The creation of the Hampshire and Solent Combined County Authority allows us to bring partners together and take a more joined-up approach to skills, education, transport, housing and economic development, helping to unlock the region’s full potential.” Said, Ruth.
Delegates left the conference hall buzzing after hearing Nicola Millard, Principal Innovation Partner, BT, talking about the continued need for humans in a future world dominated by AI.
“We need to think beyond the digital workplace. People are living longer, and automation will provide extra time; how we reinvest in the human will be vital. Our brains are brilliant; how do we pair our brilliant brains with brilliant technology? Will be key to the future.” Nicola concluded.
