Greater Lincolnshire launches Economic Advisory Panel to help shape Lincolnshire’s future

The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority (GLCCA) has convened the inaugural meeting of its Economic Advisory Panel, bringing together leading voices from across the business community to help shape the future of the region’s economy. 

The panel represents a bold step forward in collaborative leadership, giving industry, further and higher education and local government a strong, unified voice in the development of economic policy and strategy.

The Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire, Dame Andrea Jenkyns, said: “This group has a shared purpose, because we care deeply about the future of Greater Lincolnshire and we thank the panel members for giving up their valuable time and their expertise to be part of this group. They represent what is great about Greater Lincolnshire in their industries and different sectors.”

The panel’s mission is clear: To work hand-in-hand with the GLCCA and the Mayor to tackle the issues that matter most to businesses - whether short-term challenges or long-term opportunities. 
Members will play a critical role in supporting the development of economic strategies and plans, helping to drive innovative policies and programmes. 

The Mayor said: “Devolution must deliver benefits for every business. As Mayor, I will champion the businesses of Greater Lincolnshire. I want to harness the expertise of the panel to help tackle key challenges such as transport, housing and skills. Together, we can close the productivity gap and ensure that Lincolnshire starts to compete on a national level.”

The Mayor also drew inspiration from the recent GLCCA-organised Great Exhibition, a showcase of innovation, ambition and collaboration on a global stage. She said that same spirit will guide the panel’s work as it seeks to drive progress across Greater Lincolnshire.

The panel will champion the sectors most important to Greater Lincolnshire represented by its members, engage with business networks and connect with the wider business community to shape priorities and unlock opportunities. 

Members are encouraged to act as sector champions, grow Greater Lincolnshire’s connections nationally and internationally and advocate for investment and growth.

The Mayor added: “We want to put Lincolnshire on the map and let the world know we are open for business. By working together, we can attract investment, drive innovation and secure a prosperous future for Greater Lincolnshire.”

The panel will be chaired by Lincolnshire Coop Chief Executive Officer, Alison Hands, and is made up of an expert members with diverse backgrounds and business interests.

Ms Hands said: “The inaugural meeting of the Economic Advisory Panel marks an important step in shaping the future of Greater Lincolnshire. By bringing together leaders from across key sectors, we can harness their expertise and insight to drive sustainable growth, attract investment and create opportunities for businesses and communities alike. This collaboration will ensure the economic strategy reflects the strengths and ambitions of the region."

The GLCCA is currently recruiting additional members to the panel to represent the defence, energy, advanced manufacturing and construction sectors. If you are a business leader from Greater Lincolnshire and are interested, please go to admin@greaterlincolnshire-cca.gov.uk

Panel members:

Chair Alison Hands is Chief Executive Officer of Lincolnshire Coop and represents retail and property.

Professor Neil Juster is Vice Chancellor of the University of Lincoln and has extensive experience in university management and represents the education sector.

Katrina Pierce is Regional Stakeholder and Business Manager for the East Midlands Federation of Small Businesses.

Andrew Dawes is Regional Director (Humber) at Associated British Ports and represents ports and logistics.

Julian Knight is founder of Fairman, Knight and Sons Ltd and represents the agri-food sector.

James Birch is co-owner and Chief Executive of Doddington Hall, near Lincoln, and represents the visitor economy.

Steve Maxwell is Chief Executive Officer of Worldwide Fruit Ltd and represents the agri-food sector.

Andrew Ward is owner of Roy Ward Farms Ltd and represents the agri-food sector.