THE SEARCH is on to find a new, high-profile business leader to champion and support the region’s pubs, clubs, bars, concert venues, theatres and restaurants as they build back after the Covid 19 pandemic.
The Night Time Economy Advisor will act as a focal point across the West Midlands, bringing businesses together with wider stakeholders to push for investment and action to support the night time economy.
This follows a difficult period for the sector which has been hit by lockdowns and restrictions during the Covid pandemic and whose recovery is being slowed by rising energy costs.
This unpaid champion will be someone with significant experience and profile in the West Midlands night time economy with the credibility to speak for the region’s businesses, lead plans and policies with partners, and ensure the region’s night time economy thrives.
Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: “Despite the challenges and cost pressures facing business, hospitality remains a critical sector for our region and an area with major potential for future growth.
“But it remains under-represented, and as we bounce back from the economic shock of Covid I believe now is the time to bring in a champion for the Night Time Economy who can help galvanise and lead the sector.
“The Commonwealth Games showed the world what great hosts we can be, and now is the time to build on that by creating the jobs for local people, attracting new and returning visitors, and helping drive the West Midlands economy forward.
As well as working with the West Midlands Growth Company the Advisor will be co-opted on to the newly convening West Midlands Hospitality and Tourism Advisory Board, currently recruiting, to ensure a joined-up approach for the sector.
To kick start the process the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is opening recruitment for a night time economy senior policy advisor whose role will pave the way for the Night Time Economy Advisor.
They will work together to draw up a night-time strategy for the region and ensure better cohesion and outcomes for the sector.
