Senior Government representatives and UK industry leaders will be attending a major North East conference in Tees Valley next month to discuss how the region can prosper after the UK leaves the European Union.
Backed by Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and organised in partnership between the Tees Valley Combined Authority, Teesside University and Prosperity UK, the conference on Friday 16 March will draw upon the expertise and experience of the region’s business community.
Hosted by Teesside University, Prosperity North East will include some significant and influential speakers, including from a range of industry sectors, political figures and academics, including The Chancellor of Teesside University and President of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), Paul Drechsler CBE.
It will also present regional business leaders with the opportunity to take part in group discussions on subjects including infrastructure, industrial strategy, skills & training, global trade and investment.
The group sessions will be led by sector specialists who will engage with attendees to discuss the sort of economy and society they want to build after Britain leaves the European Union and identify the practical steps that need to be taken to achieve their shared vision.
Sponsored by Barclays, the conference is part of a programme of events run by Prosperity UK. An independent organisation established in 2017, Prosperity UK was founded with the support of the Government to bring together business leaders, academics and policy-makers to chart a course for the UK in a post-EU economy.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, said: “The priority for this region is to do what it takes to ensure Tees Valley and the North East thrives after Britain exits the EU. Our regions faces challenges, but we have deep reserves of leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation to draw upon. The experience and expertise of the region’s business community has a major role to play in shaping our future and I am keen to hear their views at the Prosperity North East.”
Paul Drechsler CBE, Chancellor of Teesside University and CBI President, said: “The North East has the track record of overcoming challenges and the capabilities for developing the best possible route to prosperity when the UK leaves the EU. This conference will demonstrate to senior government officials and those from outside the region that the North East business community has the energy, the commitment and ideas to shape our economy and society for future generations.”
Brian Thorpe, Barclays Director of Corporate Banking (North East) said: “The UK faces an uncertain future. As a bank with British roots stretching back over three centuries, we are proud to remain wholeheartedly dedicated to supporting the UK economy and communities to thrive, whatever may come. That’s why this event is so timely, bringing together local leaders, academics and businesses from across the region, to develop a vision for the North East. Barclays is looking forward to playing its part.”