Content

10.1

The report seeks approval of the Terms of
Reference for the Sheffield Diverse
Advisory Business Board from the Economic
Development and Skills Policy
Committee.

 

 

10.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That
Economic Development and Skills Policy Committee:-
 

Approves the Terms of Reference for
the Diverse Business Advisory Board.

 

Formally thanks the Business
Response Group for their dedication and work during the COVID
Pandemic and in co-authoring the Business Recovery Plan.

 

 

 

10.3

Reasons for
Decision

 

 

10.3.1

To ask Members to approve the Terms of
Reference for the Diverse Business Advisory Board.

 

 

10.3.2

A do-nothing option is discounted, developing
a more diverse Business Board is essential in meeting the
recommendations for an equal and enterprising city. To not follow
through would pose a risk for Business Sheffield and for the
Council more generally in meeting the specific business support
recommendations in the REC and its contribution to the wider
overarching theme of becoming an antiracist city.

 

 

10.4

Alternatives
Considered and Rejected

 

 

10.4.1

Continuation of the BRG – This group was
highly effective during COVID, meeting weekly to ensure business
organisations develop and promote the range of support available.
However this board was not representative and attendance has waned
in the post COVID period. The BRG have discussed this proposal and
agree that a new board is needed.
 

10.4.2

A new group made up of business organisations
only – This would recreate the BRG, with a broader
membership, however this would not meet the recommendations in the
REC as would not lead to a diverse set of businesses and business
leaders around the table.
 

10.4.3

Not having a business board at all – It
is important that EDS Committee and the Council have an effective
way to liaise with and hear from businesses. The Council’s
one year plan and delivery plan, seek to be a good partner to
Business in the City, and this is an effective way to do this.