SWM News September 2020 - could you join our board of directors?

I began chairing SWM at a time of great change in my personal and professional life, as I was transitioning from corporate life as CFO and Head of Sustainability at Interserve Plc to “retirement” as owner and agricultural labourer at Astley Vineyard.

I finish my three year term at a time of huge uncertainty with pandemic-driven social and economic upheaval on an unprecedented scale. Throughout this period, one thing has remained constant: the ever-present and increasing threat of climate change.

SWM has been at the forefront of efforts to ensure that key influencers in our region remain focussed on this existential crisis, notwithstanding the many competing distractions for attention. Over the last three years SWM has punched well above its weight, leading debate, shaping policy, and recruiting influential change makers across the spectrum of civic and corporate life. Of particular note are our projects with the West Midlands Combined Authority and the Committee on Climate Change; our new roadmap for a sustainable future; and our increasing network membership, particularly in the corporate sector. Reflecting these successes, it was heartwarming to hear recently that our inspirational Chief Executive, Anna Bright, had been most deservedly shortlisted for the IEMA impact award for sustainability leader of the year.

My time at SWM has been rewarding and uplifting. Surrounded by a group of (mainly young) dynamic, driven people with a common purpose, I have been able to believe that, despite the severity of the challenges facing us, we can and will succeed. Our work is not easy, and is far from complete, but I am confident that my successor as Chair has an excellent foundation upon which to build, and that our new Young Director can benefit from a unique opportunity on the SWM board.

I wish Anna and the team all the success they so richly deserve.

Tim Haywood, SWM Chair (Nov 2017-2020) on behalf of the SWM Team

The closing date for applications for the Chair and Young Director roles is the 16 October 2020.