HAYLEY’S NEW ECONOMY ROLE
The founder of price comparison firm GoCompare, Hayley Parsons, has taken up a new role – holding the UK Government to account on the delivery of its flagship Industrial Strategy policy.
Newport-born Ms Parsons, who turned Gocompare from a start-up into one of the UK’s leading price comparison and technology firms, has been appointed to the new and independent Industrial Strategy Council.
It will monitor the impact that the the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy has in improving productivity levels in the economy.
While not a devolved matter, the Welsh Government’s own strategy on innovation and improving the competitiveness of the Welsh economy, will seek alignment with the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy where possible.
Senior figures from business, academia and civil society from all corners of the UK complete the line-up, joining Bank of England chief economist Andy Haldane, who will chair the council.
Other council members include Emma Bridgewater (founder of Emma Bridgewater Ceramics), Archie Norman (M&S chair), Professor Juergen Maier (chief executive of Siemens plc) and Jayne-Anne Gadhia (ex-chief executive, Virgin Money).
On her appointment, Ms Parsons said: “Wales is a thriving and innovative country, with people who have a fantastic work ethic, and so I am thrilled to be representing the Welsh contingent on the council.
“I don’t think there is a shortage of talent in the business world, but we need to ensure the environment is right for entrepreneurs to thrive in the UK, as set out in the Industrial Strategy.
“I know I will be keen to see how the council can help businesses not only survive but prosper in the UK.”
The remit of the council includes reviewing the impact of the Industrial Strategy to date and its contribution to UK economic growth.
It will also recommend a series of measures for the successful implementation of the Industrial Strategy, which aims to boost productivity by backing businesses to create good jobs and increase the earning power of people throughout the UK.
Prime Minister Theresa May said: “Our modern Industrial Strategy is key to building a successful economy that works for everyone and creating high-quality jobs across the UK.
“This council gathers some of the most influential figures in business, academia and civil society.
“Together, they will share their expertise and skills to measure the progress of our strategy and ensure it is boosting people’s wages and improving productivity of British businesses.”