The Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) Business Council has appointed three new members to their board, reinforcing its representation of business in South East Wales.
Oliver Lancaster (Future of Energy Manager at Newport-based Wales & West Utilities), Karen Thomas (Head of South Wales Corporate for Barclays) and Justin Moore (Director at Bouygues Construction) will join the current board members, expanding the team to twelve business representatives.
Members of the Business Council are drawn from across the entire region and encompass a broad range of business backgrounds and sectors. Providing a strong voice for business, the council identifies regional priorities for business support services and designs future business support programmes.
Oliver Lancaster, Future of Energy Manager at Wales & West Utilities has over 15 years’ experience in the energy and regeneration sectors, making the future of energy his priority.
Oliver said: “The Cardiff Capital Region City Deal helps us deliver a prosperous, low carbon and sustainable future that will benefit future generations. I’m excited to help businesses access affordable and reliable energy while playing their part in achieving Net Zero decarbonisation. By joining the CCR Business Council I hope to help the region overcome environmental challenges, especially in the economically disadvantaged areas that need it the most.”
Karen Thomas, Head of South Wales Corporate for Barclays has over 25 years of experience in the financial sector. She said: “As a proud Welsh businesswoman, who has spent most of her career supporting entrepreneurs and Welsh businesses, I look forward to this exciting new opportunity. Developing suitable skills is a key challenge for many businesses in Wales, which is why together with the Business Council, I want to create an environment that supports and encourages collaboration and growth of individuals and businesses.”
Justin Moore, Director at Bouygues Construction, said: “I’m thrilled to be appointed to the CCR City Deal Business Council. Given my background, I look forward to working alongside fellow board members and represent businesses within the construction industry.”
Chair of the Business Council Neil Brierley said: “I am delighted to welcome Oliver, Karen and Justin to the Business Council. It is vital that the business community has a strong voice within the region and helps shape its development. Their breadth of knowledge, skills and expertise will complement those of the current Board members, and I very much look forward to working with them to drive the continued growth of the Capital Region.”