Berkshire Business Board recruits new members

The Berkshire Business Board, an advisory body to the Berkshire Prosperity Board established in 2024 to drive economic prosperity in Berkshire, is inviting new applications to join their Board. 

The Berkshire Prosperity Board brings together council leaders and chief executives to drive inclusive, green and sustainable economic growth across the sub-region. The Business Board plays a vital role in bringing together senior leaders from across Berkshire's key industries to embed a strong, independent business voice into local decision-making and provide strategic advice and market insight.

Members help to shape regional economic strategy, inform investment priorities, and strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors to support long-term prosperity. Current members include the Leader of West Berkshire Council, Syngenta, Bayer, Blake Morgan LLP, Equinix, Shadow Box Studios, AWE, the University of Reading, Activate Learning, Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Skills and Business Hub.

Jim Reay, Global Head of Health and Safety at Syngenta, Chair of the Business Board says:

"The Berkshire Business board aims to give advice and recommendations to the authorities across Berkshire about how to develop their economy, i.e. how to boost business growth in the county - in order to attract, retain, and grow businesses of all sizes.  It is imperative that we have the right environment for businesses to start, and small businesses to grow, as well as developing a strong offer for key sectors across Berkshire such as Health and Life Sciences where there is a link to the Government's industrial strategy, and by well-using fabulous assets in the region like Heathrow, multiple Film Studios, and the University of Reading."

Nicola Penfound, Head of Supply Chain at Bayer, and Vice Chair of the Board notes:

"I joined the Berkshire Business Board to contribute to a shared vision of inclusive and sustainable growth, leveraging our collaboration to transform our region's economic landscape, representing the Life Sciences sector. "

Councillor Jeff Brooks, Leader of West Berkshire Council, says:

"I am delighted that key organisations across Berkshire are coming together to play a major role in the economic future of the County. Working together provides real opportunity to unleash investment in infrastructure, skills and businesses which will provide improvements to the economic well-being of our residents."

What we are looking for

The Board is seeking senior representatives from small, medium and large enterprises operating within Berkshire who can:

• Bring significant sector expertise and commercial insight
• Act as ambassadors for Berkshire, using their networks to support regional growth
• Contribute actively to discussions and attend quarterly in-person meetings
• Provide informed, strategic advice and market insight to strengthen Berkshire's competitive position

Why join?

Membership of the Berkshire Business Board offers a unique opportunity to:

• Influence regional investment and growth priorities
• Shape economic strategy and policy at a strategic level
• Collaborate with senior public and private sector leaders
• Play a direct role in driving productivity, innovation and prosperity across Berkshire

Membership is for a three-year term.

Businesses interested in applying should contact Rhian Hayes, Programme Director, Berkshire Prosperity Board, for further information and/or an Expression of Interest Registration Form.

Applications close 28 April 2026.