This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
The election of Wightlink chief executive Russell Kew as one of eight business members of the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership Board has been welcomed by the Island’s other representative on the body, IW Council leader Cllr David Pugh.
The business directors will sit alongside five local authority and one higher/ further education representative on the 14-strong LEP board.
“Vital link between the LEP and the local Chamber”
Cllr Pugh said: “As chief executive of a major Island ferry company, Russell is acutely aware both of the Island’s own economic needs and also of the role the Island has to play in the wider Solent LEP region.
“He is a founder member of the shadow LEP board, so Russell has full knowledge of, and great enthusiasm for, the aims of the LEP.
“He has intimate knowledge of the needs of Island business through his position on the board of the IW Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry. In this role he will provide a vital link between the LEP and the local Chamber, ensuring that the views of local businesses are represented within the Local Enterprise Partnership.
“The Island now has two representatives on the LEP board and I will continue working with Russell to promote the best economic interests of the Island and to make sure the Island’s voice is heard loudly throughout the LEP region.”
“Delighted to have been elected”
Russell Kew, Chief Executive of Wightlink and Solent LEP Board member added: “I am delighted to have been elected to serve on the Solent LEP Board.
“I fully intend to use this position to promote the economic interests of the Island, along with the wider Solent area. My business uniquely straddles the Solent and I am therefore well placed to understand the needs of businesses on both sides of the water.
“I am committed to providing a key link between the Island business community and the LEP, and I will do this through my membership of the IW Chamber Board.
“I also look forward to working alongside the Isle of Wight Council to promote the Island’s interests and ensure we have a strong and combined voice at the LEP table.”
