Ian Bates

Ian Bates is the Policy and Representation Manager at East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire).3 He manages sector-specific forum activities to keep members informed about industry developments.3 Bates is involved in initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between education and the world of work, addressing skills shortages in the East Midlands region.1

Key Responsibilities and Activities

• Oversees the Chamber's "Bridging the Gap" initiative, which focuses on improving the link between education and employment.1
• Manages and organizes various events, including webinars on sustainability and the transition to net zero.4
• Coordinates activities related to the Chamber's Retrofit Employer Forum.2
• Advocates for increased engagement between businesses and the education sector to address skills gaps.1

Bates emphasizes the importance of businesses actively engaging with the education sector to improve the employability skills of young people and develop a pipeline of talent for local industries.1