Senior business leaders from across the region gathered at the North East Chamber of Commerce’s Partner and Corporate Dinner for a wide-ranging conversation with the region’s Mayors, Kim McGuinness and Ben Houchen.
The event brought together more than 100 senior leaders from the private and public sectors and featured a fireside chat chaired by Shevaun Haviland, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce.
The mayors discussed their ambitions for devolution, shared commitment to regional growth and the vital role businesses play in shaping the future of the North East. Both were clear: cross-party collaboration and regional unity are key to unlocking the full potential of the region.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said, “For our region, we have to work together. We’re no longer working in silos, the North East and Tees Valley are united in ambition and approach. Devolution is key to achieving our potential, and we’ll keep pushing for more powers that let us shape our future.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added, “Collaboration is vital – not just between the two Mayors, but with central government, industry and education. This government is engaging across the board, irrespective of party, which is a credit to Number 10. The North East has real momentum, and by aligning on priorities like infrastructure, energy and investment, we can make the most of this moment.”
The discussion ranged from the future of devolution and the need to reform centralised decision-making to opportunities in international trade, energy security and infrastructure development. Both mayors agreed unequivocally that devolution is essential for regional growth. Kim advocated for broader social and economic powers to be devolved by default, while Ben Houchen called for a more focused model with deep responsibility in key areas like jobs, skills and transport.
Kim said, “We are literally changing how the country is run. It’s not just about devolving powers, it’s about taking responsibility, being ambitious and doing things differently so people feel the impact of change where they live and work.”
Energy was highlighted as a particular area of strength for the region, with both mayors championing the North East’s leadership in green technologies, including hydrogen, offshore wind and nuclear innovation. They called for faster progress on grid upgrades, smarter planning processes and urgent reform of arms-length bodies that are seen as barriers to growth.
Ben said, “We’ve got to be able to deliver on our promises. We need to reform the way this country works, a complete rewiring of the UK state. Investors want pace, certainty and ambition. And this region can provide that.”
On regeneration, Ben emphasised the need for bold action to revive town centres, highlighting how fast-tracked planning and strategic use of planning obligations in Teesside have helped unlock major developments. Both mayors underlined the importance of getting more people living in town centres, with Kim supporting a focus on fewer, more transformative projects that deliver lasting impact and civic pride.
Both mayors also referenced growing international interest in the region and stressed the importance of presenting a united front on the global stage. They highlighted plans for joint trade missions to promote the North East as a cohesive and competitive investment destination.
Chairing the conversation, Shevaun Haviland praised the North East’s approach, saying, “It’s great to see the mayors working together for the good of the North East. Businesses don’t have borders, and they want to work closely with all politicians to boost economic growth across the region.”
Earlier in the evening, guests heard from Natasha McDonough, vice president of the North East Chamber of Commerce, who reflected on the Chamber’s recent policy work, member engagement and its efforts to ensure the region’s voice is heard nationally.
Guests also heard from Matt Beeton, CEO of Port of Tyne, who welcomed attendees and highlighted the port’s role in supporting international trade, regional regeneration and global investment. Matt said, “The North East has always been a gateway for global trade, and the Port of Tyne is proud to play a leading role as a catalyst for international business. Events like this highlight the huge potential and ambition of the North East, and we’re committed to ensuring the Port plays its part in developing business and job creation opportunities for the whole region.”
The Chamber’s senior leaders’ series is designed to bring together decision-makers from across sectors to share insight, challenge thinking and build relationships that drive regional growth. The Partner and Corporate Dinner was the latest in a programme of exclusive events tailored to senior members.
Chamber chief executive John McCabe said: “Our role is to bring people together and create the space for meaningful conversations about the North East’s future. We’re proud to be supporting our members to lead that conversation and to shape the policy agenda locally and nationally. Events like this are a reflection of the ambition, energy and leadership we see right across our region.”
The Partner and Corporate Dinner took place at the Radisson Blu, Durham on 23 April. The event was sponsored by the Port of Tyne, with the Chamber’s senior leaders’ series supported by large business associate sponsor, Newcastle College.
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