SV’s James Byrne joins The Greater Manchester Business Board

James Byrne speaking at the launch of Sustainable Ventures’ County Hall workspace

The Greater Manchester Business Board has recently welcomed five new members, following the decision to phase out Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs). This more dynamic Business Board model seeks to bring the voices of businesses to the foreground of local and national decision-making.

The newly appointed members include James Byrne, Partner at Sustainable Ventures, who will join the board alongside Devrim Celal of KrakenFlex, Laura Percy from LandsecU+I, Steve Rothberg from Manchester Metropolitan University, and Michael Wilton of Arup.

"Their insights and knowledge will be invaluable as we seek to deliver the right kind of economic growth, bringing people and planet with us," says Business Board Chair Lou Cordwell OBE. "Together we remain committed to building a fairer, greener and more innovative Greater Manchester economy."

James will help to provide private sector business advice to Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Mayor Andy Burnham, bringing Sustainable Ventures’ specialist innovation experience to the region. 

Having seen such positive growth in the region over the last decade or so, Greater Manchester plays a key role in determining the future prosperity of the UK, something which can be seen with its growing climate tech sector. Sustainable Ventures’ expansion to Manchester in 2024 reflects this trend, with plans to support the growing climate tech community and assist the region in meeting its net zero target whilst creating inclusive green jobs and boosting the economy.