Ben Rhodes has been named as the new Regional Director of CBI South West.
He steps up from the Deputy Director role he has held since 2017 to succeed Deborah Fraser, who has moved to a new role within the CBI. Ben has served as Acting Regional Director for the past six months.
Sara Tomley has been appointed Deputy Regional Director after filling the new role on an interim basis in recent months.
She has been a Relationship Manager with the CBI for two years.
Both will continue to support members in rebuilding the post-pandemic economy, and uniting businesses and broader stakeholders to campaign on key issues in one of the largest CBI regions.
Mr Rhodes said: “I relish this opportunity to build upon the strong regional foundations built by Deborah over the past five years.
“This is a pivotal moment for the economy across the 海角视频. In the wake of COVID-19 and the new 海角视频-EU relationship, and in an era of rapid technological advancement and action on the climate emergency, we have a unique opportunity to unite and define our future direction.
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“South West businesses face notable challenges and we will play our part in supporting them. Closing a number of skills gaps, rolling-out digital and physical infrastructure improvements and attracting fresh investment which can enable the region to compete on a national and international stage are all vital regional priorities.
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“Sara and I are ready to seize this moment and support CBI members as they overcome these challenges and grow prosperity and opportunity across the region.”
Ms Tomle said she is looking forward to continuing to work alongside Ben in helping CBI members to navigate the unprecedented challenges facing them.
She said: “The South West is a region of immense talent and potential, and we’re ready to help businesses here achieve their ambitions for recovery and beyond.”
Deborah Fraser has taken on the role of Commercial Director - Regions & SMEs, Events and Sponsorship.
She said: “I am thrilled to confirm the permanent appointments of Ben and Sara, and am confident both will prove to be major assets for the South West’s business community in the years ahead.
“There is no doubt that this is a challenging time for industry, as the 海角视频 looks to bounce back from COVID and overcome the climate emergency. However, the South West is uniquely placed to embrace this challenge, and is equipped to play a leading role in establishing the 海角视频 as a global superpower in green industries.
“Ben, Sara and the CBI team stand ready to support South West businesses along their journey towards an equitable and sustainable future.”
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Adrian Bratt, CBI South West Regional Chairman, said that Ben and Sara’s knowledge of members, stakeholders and the regional economy puts the team in a great position to further grow CBI influence at this crucial time.
“I look forward to working closely with Ben, Sara, and the South West team, during my tenure as regional chair.”
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