Chamber report highlights people as key to North East growth
Developed in collaboration with members, the People of the North East report provides real examples of how organisations are placing people at the heart of their decision-making and highlights the importance of creating healthier, happier and more inclusive places to live and work.
The report aligns with priorities set out in the Chamber’s Unlocking the North East Economy policy plan, which focus on creating quality jobs, supporting the transition to net zero, improving connectivity, championing trade, promoting wellbeing and driving inclusive growth.
Tim Marsden, knowledge manager at North East Chamber of Commerce, said: “The North East’s greatest strength has always been its people. Across every sector and community, we see individuals and organisations driving innovation and creating opportunities for future generations.
“This report highlights both the opportunities and challenges facing our region. While we know there is fantastic talent, creativity and ambition here, we also recognise the barriers that still exist around economic inactivity, skills gaps, health inequalities and access to opportunity.
“As the economy continues to change at pace, one thing is clear: the future success of the North East will be shaped not only by investment and infrastructure, but by how well businesses support people, communities and opportunities.”
Tim added: “The Chamber is proud to champion these stories and the organisations behind them. By aligning business practice with the region’s needs, the future of the North East will be built by businesses that invest in people, act with purpose and recognise that prosperity is strongest when it is shared.”
The report brings together industry experts and businesses across a range of sectors, including recruitment, housing and digital.
It explores how businesses are adopting flexible business models and inclusive hiring practices to unlock untapped potential, enrich workplace culture and improve business performance.
Sam Spoors, founder and managing director at Talentheads, said: “The North East’s future prosperity depends on more than economic growth – it hinges on how businesses support their people.
“Through inclusive hiring, flexible work, wellbeing strategies, skills development and purpose-led cultures, regional employers are setting a powerful example.
“These innovative practices are not just good for business – they are helping to reshape the region’s identity and build a more equitable and resilient workforce.”
Lee Eckert, senior operations manager at ArvatoConnect, shares the importance of putting people at the heart of digital innovation in the report.
He said: “Digital transformation often sparks concerns about jobs being replaced by machines. In reality, the most effective transformations are those that put employees at the centre.”
Lee added: “It’s about creating opportunities for people to live better lives, whether that’s through faster access to services, a more inclusive workforce or communities that feel supported rather than excluded by technology.”
The Chamber continues to support members across a range of critical issues and has called for action from policymakers to create a clear roadmap around ensuring everyone in the region can reach their full potential.
Work continues on the Local Skills Improvement Plan, which puts people at the heart of the skills system, helping to create sustainable career pathways that meet local economic needs.
Through initiatives including an Inclusive Recruitment Toolkit and an upcoming work experience and onboarding toolkit, produced with the Education and Skills Forum, the Chamber is supporting employers to create more accessible routes into work, apprenticeships and training.
To view the People of the North East report, click here.
