A new group representing private sector businesses has been established aimed at championing growth across the West Midlands.
Called 'Business Commission West Midlands' (BCWM), it comprises figures from enterprise supported by advisers to examine the opportunities for regional business and identify the action needed to seize them.
It is led by an independent chair and panel of private-sector commissioners drawn from a range of industries.
The new body plans to undertake a mass engagement and research programme aimed at giving a meaningful voice to the regional business community.
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The Commission, which has been convened by Greater Birmingham, Coventry and Warwickshire and Black Country chambers, will set out to identify trends in business' priorities and appetite for growth.
It will also outline key areas of change identified by local firms and perceived areas of strength in the West Midlands.
BCWM says it wants to map existing initiatives, interventions and actors aimed at enabling business growth and recommend policy changes, initiatives and areas for further research.
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The commission is chaired by Mark Taylor, Midlands managing partner at accountancy and business advisory firm RSM.
He will be joined by Sandra Wallace, joint managing director of law firm DLA Piper, Carmen Watson, chairwoman of recruitment agency Pertemps, and Dan Barlow, chief executive of IT consultancy Kagool among others.
The commission's partners include University College Birmingham, Aston University, McDonald's franchisee Douglas Wright and Birmingham City University.
Mr Taylor said: "I passionately believe this business commission can play a key role in translating the voice of business into a clear and compelling summary of the proactive steps that need to be taken to support future growth and prosperity in the region.
"The West Midlands is a fantastic place to do business and it is essential that we protect and build on our assets in a fast-changing world."
Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and commission convenor, added: "The level and pace of change that the business community has seen in recent years has been extraordinary.
"In this context, we need a fundamental reset of our understanding of what businesses need to fulfil their growth potential.
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"With more change ahead in the form of significant elections, there is an opportunity, and a need, to influence by presenting a strong, clear voice from the region's businesses.
"I am delighted to be working with talented and influential commissioners, advisors and partners to bring their collective knowledge and expertise to this important task."