Miller Construction Chief Executive joins Board of Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP

Chris Webster, Chief Executive of Miller Construction, has been appointed to the Board of The Greater Birmingham & Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP).

Chris joins as the lead for property and construction and has been appointed to reflect the emerging priorities of the LEP as it approaches its first anniversary. His new role will be pivotal for GBSLEP which is set to increase its involvement in construction projects.

Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership is one of the largest of the 38 LEPS, with a population of 1.9 million people and 800,000 jobs. It contributes £36 billion to the local economy.

Chris Webster, said: “I am delighted to be joining GBSLEP. An early priority is getting some of the stalled property and construction projects moving again, and positive steps are being made with activities starting to happen.

“The vision GBSLEP has for property and construction is inspiring and I look forward to playing my part in bringing this to fruition. The City Centre Enterprise Zone is a major opportunity for developers and by working together we can shape the future of Birmingham.”

Andy Street, Chair of the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “In the 12 months since the LEP was formed, it has become clear as to where much of our attention will be focused.

“Furthermore, construction and infrastructure have become increasingly important as funds like Growing Places have come on-stream. This is why having somebody with the experience and expertise of Chris Webster will be vital.

“Chris has worked around the world on construction and infrastructure projects and has been involved in a number of schemes locally during his career which spans over 30 years and, crucially, he has experience and understanding of the housing sector.

“The Board will need somebody of his standing to help us to make the most of our involvement in development projects – not least the ambitious City Centre Enterprise Zone scheme.”

Chris joins the Board at the same time as Patrick Hanlon, area manager for Handelsbanken, who will represent the banking sector.