A renewed focus on skills, employment and economic growth is the commitment of the new chair of the Northamptonshire Logistic Industry Forum (NLIF) which is hosted by University of Northampton (UON).
Clare Bottle FCILT, is currently Chief Executive of the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) and has been announced as the latest Chair of the NLIF.
Hosted by UON, this forum brings together businesses, government representatives, educational institutions, and other relevant organisations to discuss challenges and opportunities facing the industry and to work towards common goals such as improving infrastructure, promoting innovation, and supporting workforce development.
Clare previously served as Chair of Governors at Northampton School for Girls and earlier in her career managed a warehouse on Brackmills Industrial Estate, one of the county’s major logistics hubs.
She said: “Logistics is absolutely fundamental to Northamptonshire’s economy and to daily life, but it often operates behind the scenes.
“I’m passionate about making sure the sector is better understood and that we create clear pathways into great careers for local people.
“The Forum is a brilliant opportunity to bring education and industry closer together and deliver real benefits for the county.”
Dr Cathy Smith, UON’s Dean of Research and Knowledge Exchange, said: “We are delighted to welcome Clare as Chair.
“Clare is widely recognised across the logistics and supply chain sector as a respected leader and advocate, with a strong national profile and a reputation for bringing people together to drive progress.
“Her leadership and experience will help us build on the Forum’s work and strengthen links between the University, businesses and the wider community.”
The Forum will continue to focus on key issues including skills development, innovation and sustainable growth, helping to ensure Northamptonshire remains a leading location for logistics in the UK.
Businesses, educators and stakeholders interested in getting involved with the Forum or learning more about its work are encouraged to contact University of Northampton’s Knowledge Exchange & Enterprise Administrator Sophie Richardson.