DCBC challenges businesses to up their game

More than eighty of the region’s business leaders gathered at Dartington Hall for the Devon & Cornwall Business Council Annual Dinner. 

At the prestigious black tie event, Ben Rhodes, chief executive of Devon & Cornwall Business Council gave an opening address, calling for leaders to focus on improving productivity within their businesses, said: “Despite the UK having the fastest growing economy in Europe, ONS figures suggest that UK productivity is on average, 21% lower than other G7 countries. We are challenging DCBC members to consider how we in Devon and Cornwall can raise our productivity without the need for more costly, centrally funded interventions.”

“A key part of the productivity and connectivity story is fibre broadband and so it was really heartening to have the OECD Wellbeing report highlight the South-West as the ‘best for broadband’ this year. We have a huge fibre advantage in the peninsula and it is critical that we spend time focussing our minds on how we exploit this leadership position, over the coming months and years, in order to drive productivity.”

The guest speaker for the evening was Neil Snowball, director of operations for England Rugby 2015, the Tournament Organisers for Rugby World Cup 2015.   With the region set to welcome players from Tonga, Georgia, Romania and Namibia as they set up camp in Devon at Woodbury Park, the University of Exeter and the University of St Mark and St John, Neil was able to talk about the potential impact the event would have on regional businesses, not least due to his former experience as head of sport for the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games.

Neil said: “Thank you to DCBC for inviting me to address the region’s business leaders.  With three matches taking place at Sandy Park during Rugby World Cup 2015, and a whole host of initiatives taking place in the lead up to the Tournament, there are a number of exciting opportunities available for the local community to engage with the Tournament. 

"As the third largest sporting event globally, next year is our chance to showcase England and Cardiff to the international audience who will be attending the Tournament, highlighting our fantastic facilities, hospitality and expertise for hosting world class events.” 

Guests also raised £833 for DCBC’s nominated charity, Dame Hannah Rodgers Trust, during a prize draw with prizes generously donated by members of the Exeter and Heart of Devon Hotels and Restaurants Association.