News & views

1 May 2025

The University of Leicester has joined the LBV 100 Club, a campaign launched by Leicestershire Business Voice (LBV) to bring together a diverse mix of organisations committed to shaping the economic future of Leicester and Leicestershire.

As a distinguished and long-standing member of LBV, the University of Leicester is continuing its strategic partnership to work even more closely with local businesses to enable knowledge exchange, and graduate employment and retention. Through collaboration with LBV and the LBV 100 Club members, this partnership is dedicated to actively supporting and driving forward the region’s economic success.

LBV is the premier business advocacy group for Leicester and Leicestershire, and works with its members and local and regional decision makers to shape and influence policy for the benefit of our economy and businesses.

LBV was established in 2001 by business leaders from the city and county. Its vision is to connect, represent and inspire diverse leaders to drive sustainable growth and innovation across the region.

Recognising the need for an independent, not-for-profit organisation, LBV was created to provide a focal point and strong voice for local business leaders. It serves as a platform through which the experience and expertise of its members can be harnessed to highlight and address local business needs—for the benefit of both the business community and the wider region.

To learn more and lend your voice by joining the LBV 100 Club, visit: www.lbv.co.uk/membership/

As a member, the University of Leicester is contributing to LBV’s ‘100 Club’  campaign by joining forces to strengthen the voice of the business community and shape the economic future of Leicestershire.

Sue Tilley, new LBV Chair, commented: “As large employers who play a vital role in higher education, R&D and skills development our local universities are key strategic partners contributing to the LBV network and advocating for the local business community. I’m delighted that the University of Leicester, as a research intensive university, is continuing to be a strategic partner of LBV and willing to adapt and evolve their support to the widening needs of our businesses.”

Members of both organisations recently met at Brookfield House, home to the School of Business at the University of Leicester, to outline areas of collaboration and focus on key developments to make progress on common priorities. Those attending the discussion are pictured with Jane Cowley, LBV Director, joining online.

Head of Placements and Graduate Outcomes at the University of Leicester Tom Ledgard, who is facilitating the activation of the partnership, said: “Being a member of LBV reaffirms the University’s commitment to nurture local business partnerships, shape policy and influence decision-making to improve lives and livelihoods in the region. Through our engagement in the network, we are keen to work with members to inform and influence the provision and access to support that fosters and enables business and economic growth.”

The University of Leicester works closely with businesses to accelerate innovation by turning great research and business ideas into innovative products, services through free or subsidised innovation support.

University of Leicester students and graduates can also access programmes of support to develop their skills for employment and or establishing new business ventures including access to workshops, seed funding, and workspaces. Connect and explore the services available to your business here: https://le.ac.uk/enterprise