Week one and I’ve never felt so proud, representing the area I am from and serving local people and businesses.
Literally the second day in post, on Tuesday, I was at a meeting with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury! It’s just the start of delivering one of my main aims - to make the case for more investment in our area to the national government.
But the week actually started off with meeting the small team here. There’s a big job to do, building the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority into an efficient organisation that really makes a difference in growing our area’s economy and creating new jobs and opportunities for local people. I know from my own experience as a sportsman and setting up new businesses that having the right team is vital, with the culture, skills and focus to deliver.
So, as you can imagine, I’ve spent a fair amount of time in meetings, briefings and discussions with the small existing team here.
One of my priorities was to be out there nationally and internationally, making the case for public and private sector investment in Hull and East Yorkshire. It’s also vital we build partnerships, locally and wider afield. So, as well as meeting a key government minister, I’ve had the chance to introduce myself to various other Mayors from across the country.
And on day three, I was even prouder still. I was fortunate enough to be invited to Westminster Abbey and attend the remembrance service for the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe. It puts everything into perspective, remembering those in World War II, and since, who have served the country so well and put their own lives on the line. It was very moving to pay tribute and remind ourselves that so many have lost their lives for us all.
I have always said that being transparent and telling people about what I and HEYCA do is really important to me. That’s one of the reasons I wanted to set up this weekly blog and talk about my week. I can honestly say there is a lot to do. As I have mentioned, we need to build an organisation to deliver – and to continue with my pledge to hit the ground running.
Listening to people’s experiences and views is vital. Over the months ahead it’s another thing I will be doing a lot of – from young people wanting to talk about the skills and careers they want, to local firms explaining the support they need.
I hope this has given a useful look into my first few days. Please do come back and read it in future weeks, and share with your friends, family and colleagues. It’s been a positive start, and I am determined over the long weeks ahead to work with local businesses and communities to help secure the investment and opportunities we need.