After 19 years with the CBI, I was appointed as Wales Director.
In my last regular column for Business News Wales, I compiled some thoughts as I reflected on my time at the CBI.
It’s no exaggeration to say that the past few decades have been a rollercoaster for the business world in Wales and the rest of the UK.
During this period, three events stood out for their impact on business and society. The 2008 financial crisis, Brexit and COVID-19 brought immense hardship, and the pandemic has also brought unbearable tragedy to communities.
CBI has supported businesses through all these huge challenges through our work on the furlough scheme and a range of policy initiatives.
It has also been an interesting period of working with local government and the UK Government on business priorities for Wales. During my time in the CBI, we had eight chief ministers and five chief ministers. Most of the politicians I have met over the years have had Wales’ interests at heart. They all have different styles and some were definitely more effective than others.
One of the saddest things I have witnessed in the political world is the increasing level of abuse against elected officials, especially women, through social media. I wonder why anyone would want to go into that profession if they know they will be exposed to that level of abuse. It’s disgusting to subject someone to abuse, and in the current climate, I would be very cautious about encouraging anyone in my family to join politics. In my view, this is a very worrying situation and is by no means unique to Wales, but a global phenomenon.
Over the years I have met and worked with some wonderful people in my various roles at CBI and it would be unfair to single out any one person. I have great colleagues at CBI, and their level of dedication is unparalleled. They work extremely hard and are committed to tackling the challenges facing the business.
I have worked with many outstanding CBI colleagues and their honesty and integrity is an inspiration. We are also fortunate to have a great group of civil servants and government relations professionals who care passionately about Wales.
Finally, I was delighted to see so many representatives from the Welsh business community gather for my retirement party at Cardiff and Vale College’s chef training restaurant, The Classroom. .
Business owners, managers and staff across Wales work hard every day to survive and thrive.
After retiring as CBI Wales Director, I will continue to work in the private sector in a part-time capacity with Thomas Carroll, supporting great organizations such as Vibe Youth and Gower College in Swansea. I would especially like to thank everyone in the CBI Wales team for their support, guidance and friendship over the past 19 years.
