Find out how you could help to shape the region’s future as the new Chair of the Solent LEP

The Chair of the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Gary Jeffries, is standing down after six years in the role. We asked Gary a few questions about the LEP, being its Chair and his proudest achievements.
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Published 24th Jan 2020, 00:00 BST
Updated 24th Jan 2020, 00:00 BST
(L-r) Solent LEP Deputy Chair Brian Johnson, Assistant Director of Strategy and Programme Development Stuart Baker and Chair Gary Jeffries at the National Maritime Awards in 2019 held in Southampton in 2019(L-r) Solent LEP Deputy Chair Brian Johnson, Assistant Director of Strategy and Programme Development Stuart Baker and Chair Gary Jeffries at the National Maritime Awards in 2019 held in Southampton in 2019
(L-r) Solent LEP Deputy Chair Brian Johnson, Assistant Director of Strategy and Programme Development Stuart Baker and Chair Gary Jeffries at the National Maritime Awards in 2019 held in Southampton in 2019

What appealed to you to join the LEP as Chair?

I think we're so fortunate to live and work in a region that is truly unique. With two world-class cities, cultural and heritage assets, a fantastic visitor economy, the New Forest National Park, what's not to love? To be involved in developing the economy for a region with so much to offer and the ambition to grow, I just wanted to be a part of those changes.

What is your favourite part of the role of Chair?

Solent Local Enterprise PartnershipSolent Local Enterprise Partnership
Solent Local Enterprise Partnership

Every day is remarkably different. One minute I can be working alongside local political leaders or other captains of industry in the area and the next academics, all with the same desire to shape the future of the region. It's incredibly fulfilling to know everything I do is helping to set the economic direction for the Solent region for years to come.

What do you feel your role as Chair has done to expand your professional experience?

The Chair role has developed not only my capability, but the time I've given to the role has developed the capability of a nationally-significant region and that's very rewarding. Whether it's engagements with ministers of state, key local leaders or working with other LEP board members, every day has been different and allowed me experiences that likely wouldn't have been possible in previous roles. This has not only expanded my knowledge but also allowed me the opportunity to work with such a diverse range of communities.

What would you say to someone considering applying for the new Chair role?

The work we've done since 2011 to help the economy grow is having a real impact. The next Chair will have the ability to build on the work we've already done, so it's a fantastic head start. It's an exciting opportunity for someone who really does want to make a difference and who wants to develop their own capability. If you're dynamic, passionate, dedicated and already a business leader living and working in the region, go for it!

If you would like to know more about becoming the new Chair for the Solent LEP, go to transformingsolent.com