News & views

14 May 2025

Chair of LBV, Sue Tilly, shares her reflection of this year's annual member's dinner.

“This year’s Leicestershire Business Voice (LBV) annual dinner marked a special moment for me — my first as Chair — and what an evening it was. A full room, warm conversation, and a real sense of purpose and pride in our business community.

I was genuinely delighted to see such a strong turnout and to have the opportunity to speak with so many of our fantastic members and their guests. The diversity, energy and ambition in the room was inspiring — a powerful reminder of the strength and potential of Leicester and Leicestershire’s business landscape.

We were honoured to be joined by Liz Kendall MP, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, as our keynote speaker. Liz was not only generous with her time, but deeply engaged in the issues that matter to local businesses. She made it clear how important it is that government hears directly from the business community — and she welcomed ongoing dialogue with LBV and our members.

In her speech, Liz spoke with clarity and purpose about workforce challenges, recruitment, skills, and the barriers many small businesses face in accessing support. She also highlighted this week’s UK–India and UK–US trade developments and the opportunities they bring for growth and international collaboration.

Her message was clear: businesses like ours will be at the heart of driving economic progress, and she wants to be part of that conversation.

For me, the evening perfectly captured what LBV exists to do: bring people together, amplify the voice of business, and help shape policy and progress through genuine engagement.

If you’re not yet a member — or thinking of reconnecting — now is the time. LBV is growing in momentum and reach, and your voice matters.

To all who attended: thank you for making my first annual dinner as Chair so memorable.

This is only the beginning.”

Sue Tilley, Chair of Leicestershire Business Voice