Board of Trade

I am delighted to announce that I have appointed a new Board of Trade.

The newly formed Board will be an advocate for UK businesses at home and abroad, championing the country’s 5.5 million SMEs and realising their export potential. This will help super-charge growth for the economy as part of the Plan for Change.

The newly appointed advisers have been handpicked for their deep sector expertise and knowledge, representing some of the UK’s most successful businesses. They will play a crucial role in supporting the department’s growth priorities, focusing on supporting small businesses and boosting exports.

The Secretary of State is pleased to appoint:

Omar AliMike Hawes OBEDame Vivian Hunt DBEAllison KirkbyPaul Lindley OBECatherine McGuinness CBEMichelle Ovens CBEMike SoutarSarah WalkerDr Charles Woodburn CBEIn addition to the following ex officio advisers:

Secretary of State for Scotland, The Rt Hon Ian Murray MPSecretary of State for Wales, The Rt Hon Jo Stevens MPSecretary of State for Northern Ireland, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MPThe Lord Mayor of London, Alastair KingMinister of State for Investment, Baroness Gustafsson of Chesterton CBEMinister of State for Industry, Sarah Jones MPMinister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security, The Rt Hon Douglas Alexander MPParliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets, Justin Madders MPParliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Services, Small Business and Exports, Gareth Thomas MPParliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Future Digital Economy and Online Safety, Baroness in Waiting (Government Whip), and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Minister for Legislation), Baroness Jones of Whitchurch

The role as a Board of Trade adviser is unpaid and voluntary.