Co-op Group chief executive Steve Murrells is the latest business leader to join the government’s Inclusive Economy Partnership.
Set up in 2017, the partnership is looking at the UK’s most pressing social challenges where government, business and civil society have a stake.
The group is convened by DCMS and the Cabinet Office, with support from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, and focuses on three areas – transition to work for young people, mental health, and financial inclusion.
Mr Murrells will work with 14 other chief executives from a wide range of organisations, including National Grid, Nationwide, O2, TechUK, NCVO and Big Lottery Fund.
He said: “I am really excited to be joining like-minded people who are committed to tackling some of society’s toughest challenges.
“The Co-op’s purpose extends beyond creating pure commercial value alone. Our 4.6 million members expect their Co-op to help create positive social impact and value in areas such as skills, inclusion and wellbeing. This opportunity enables me to share those goals, with like-minded partners, and to develop mutual solutions, which can support and strengthen communities across the UK.”
Jeremy Wright, secretary of state at DCMS, said: “I’d like to welcome Steve to the Inclusive Economy Partnership and have no doubt his vast experience and ethos will make a great contribution as we work to solve some of the country’s most difficult social challenges.”
