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August 21.2025

2 Minutes Read

Chancellor Reeves Appoints Business Leaders to Treasury Board: Are SMEs Being Heard?

SME representation in Treasury appointments, woman in conference setting.

Treasury Board Appointments: A Step Forward or Missed Opportunity?

The recent appointment of prominent business figures to the Treasury’s Board of Directors by Chancellor Rachel Reeves has stirred debates within the small business community. Effective September, these appointments include Sir Charlie Mayfield, former chair of John Lewis Partnership, fintech entrepreneur Edward Twiddy, and communications expert Jenny Scott. While the Treasury emphasizes these selections aim to bring fresh insights and boost operational efficiency, many in the SME sector express concerns regarding the absence of advocates with firsthand experience of small business challenges.

The Critique from SME Leaders

Voices from the SME sector have resonated, with leaders emphasizing the need for representations that truly understand the unique struggles faced by smaller enterprises. Mary Maguire, managing director of Astute Recruitment, remarked on the “cash flow nightmares” that SMEs endure, claiming that corporate executives may lack the day-to-day understanding necessary to guide relevant policies. Additionally, Michelle Lawson from Lawson Financial cautioned that this move comes at a time when senior officials may be trying to compensate for their previous business inexperience, indicating a struggle to repair past damages during a crucial economic recovery period.

Can Fresh Minds Bring Robust Solutions?

Despite the criticism, some experts maintain a hopeful outlook on the appointments, asserting that experienced figures like Mayfield and Twiddy could foster smarter decision-making at the Treasury. Independent financial advisor Samuel Mather-Holgate emphasized the urgency for Rebecca to follow through on her “Plan for Change,” converting talk into tangible actions that can positively impact the economy. Others questioned Scott’s placement, noting her background in communications rather than actual business management might hinder the balance required for effective governance of economic policies.

The Path Forward

The discussions surrounding these appointments encapsulate a significant aspect of the broader narrative of economic recovery and growth in the UK. As businesses large and small navigate the post-pandemic landscape, the demand for diverse perspectives, particularly those of entrepreneurs who manage the intricacies of small enterprises, remains pressing. Right now, it is imperative for the Treasury to not only engage high-profile leaders but also actively include voices that can bridge the gap between policy creation and the realities of business operation.

In conclusion, cultivating this inclusive dialogue is not just an option but a necessity for effective governance—ensuring vibrant economic growth that resonates across all sectors.

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Chancellor Reeves Appoints Business Leaders to Treasury Board: Are SMEs Being Heard?

Treasury Board Appointments: A Step Forward or Missed Opportunity?

The Critique from SME Leaders

Can Fresh Minds Bring Robust Solutions?

The Path Forward

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