PEOPLE
HELP SHAPE OUR REGION ’ S FUTURE
Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council are launching an open recruitment process for the newly-formed Economic Advisory Board for Swindon and Wiltshire .
The councils are seeking people with passion and expertise to contribute to understanding the diverse needs of different areas , business sectors , and economic activities within the region .
Following the recent transfer of local economic functions responsibility from the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership ( SWLEP ) to local authorities , Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council are seeking to appoint members to a new board . This board will serve as the business voice for the area , providing strategic advice and guidance as the region delivers its business support programs and develops its Economic Strategy , due later this year .
Through this joint working arrangement , Swindon and Wiltshire aim to address challenges , leverage strengths , and seize emerging opportunities , with a focus on sustainable and inclusive growth , as well as a commitment to net zero initiatives .
Cllr Richard Clewer , Leader of Wiltshire Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Development , said , “ This a fantastic opportunity for skilled businesspeople from a range of sectors to join the Economic Advisory Board and help to shape the future of economic activity in Wiltshire and Swindon .
“ Once appointed , board members will provide strategic leadership , insight and support , representing Wiltshire and Swindon locally , nationally , and internationally , and helping to deliver local priorities , including the Economic Strategy .
“ I ’ d encourage anyone with a strong understanding of the local economy and effective leadership skills to find out more and apply .”
Councillor Jim Robbins , Leader of Swindon Borough Council , added , “ We are very fortunate in Swindon and Wiltshire that we have an incredibly vibrant and strong economy , which is underpinned by hugely successful
businesses of all manner of sizes . This new Board will help shape the future growth of our economy and play a strategic role in its continued success .
“ It is important the Board is representative of our diverse economy so whether you own a large firm , or a small business , and you have the strategic leadership skills to drive our economic growth , we want to hear from you .”
These board roles are voluntary and do not attract a salary . Board members are expected to commit to up to four two-hour meetings per year , along with additional time for preparation . The term of office is one year with potential for reappointment .
For more info and to apply visit : www . wiltshire . gov . uk / economic-advisory-board
Diversity and inclusion – the key to unlock your business potential
Diversity and inclusion aren ’ t just buzzwords ; they ’ re essential components for any thriving workplace .
Working in recruitment , we ’ ve seen how a lack of diversity can hinder a company ’ s progress and how continuing outdated practices can stifle innovation - but it doesn ’ t have to be this way .
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Diversity , Equity and Inclusion ( DEI ) are foundational principles that drive better hiring practices and foster a culture of respect and belonging . Inclusion is the key to unlocking the full potential of diversity . It ’ s about creating an environment where every voice is heard , valued and respected . When employees feel included , they ’ re more engaged , productive and committed to their work .
Promoting diversity and inclusion isn ’ t about lip service ; it requires deliberate action and systemic change .
Here ’ s how we advise our clients at CMD Recruitment to foster diversity and inclusion in their workplaces :
1 . Revamp Hiring Practices : Instead of just setting quotas , companies need to change how they hire . This means rewriting job ads , trying different ways to find candidates and using fairer methods to select people .
2 . Get Everyone Involved : Diversity and inclusion are everyone ’ s job , not just HR ’ s . Companies should make sure everyone knows why it ’ s important and how they can help .
3 . Admit Mistakes : It ’ s okay to say you need to improve . Leaders should be open about their own biases and commit to learning more .
4 . Listen to Concerns : Some people might resist diversity efforts because they ’ re scared or don ’ t understand . Companies should talk to them and try to address their worries .
5 . Keep Learning : Diversity and inclusion aren ’ t one-time goals . Companies need to keep working on them , challenging assumptions and welcoming new ideas .
By following these steps , companies can create workplaces where everyone feels included and valued . It ’ s not always easy , but the rewards - like better ideas , happier employees , and stronger teams - are worth it .
At CMD Recruitment , we believe that embracing diversity and inclusion isn ’ t just the right thing to do - it ’ s the smart thing to do for a brighter future .
Call our expert team today on :
01225 805080
or email : info @ cmdrecruitment . com
18 www . tbeswindonandwilts . co . uk