Intro to be added
Background
Woking Borough Council has for some time adopted a proactive approach to business engagement. This ranges from direct contact with senior officers and elected Members, regular business engagement events, support of the Woking Works initiative, engagement of businesses in the development of key strategies and policies and the continued operation of the Business Liaison Service. The level of business engagement has resulted in an overall good relationship with the business community and a wider appreciation and understanding of Council priorities and projects.
During the development of the 2017-2022 Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan the need to directly engage with senior level executives within the largest and most influential businesses within the Borough was identified. This was agreed as being of specific priority in light of the decision to leave the EU and emerging uncertainty of the UK and specifically South East being a logical international business location of choice for regional, national and international businesses.
Engagement Format
Based on successful similar events elsewhere in the region we decided that a highly targeted ‘business leaders dinner’ would be organised on an annual basis. This is designed to be an opportunity for the Leader and Chief Officers of Woking Borough Council to share the Councils’ plans for economic growth in the Borough and, more importantly, to engage with strategically important local businesses and consider issues affecting them to ensure they are able to remain and grow in the area.
Membership Criteria
CEO's, CFO's, or similar level
+ 50 employees
+ £1m turnover
