Supporting the Welsh business community

Kathryn Roberts appointed to Chair of CBI Wales from January 2021

Eversheds Sutherland Cardiff Senior Office Partner Kathryn Roberts, has been appointed as Chair for the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) Wales from January 2021, replacing current Chair Wayne Harvey, Senior Partner of Deloitte in Wales.

Kathryn joined the CBI’s Council in 2015 and currently serves as Vice Chair. From January, she will also join the CBI Chairs’ Committee, a national body responsible for creating and managing CBI policy.

The CBI Wales Council is made up of many of Wales’ larger businesses, speaks on behalf of all its Welsh members and uses its influence to ensure that the voice of business in Wales is heard in Wales and in the wider United Kingdom.

Kathryn Roberts said:

“It’s hard to think of a more challenging time for Welsh business, and I think we need to brace ourselves for a testing few years as the post-pandemic recovery gets underway.

“In spite of these difficulties, I’m a firm believer in business as a force for good, and as a huge economic and social enabler. While the challenges ahead shouldn’t be underestimated, with the right focus and support, there will also be great opportunities for Welsh businesses post-pandemic.

“My role at CBI Wales will be to help businesses capitalise on that potential and I look forward to working closely with the CBI team and council colleagues to continue the fantastic work and engagement that Dame Carolyn Fairbairn, Director-General, CBI, has led.”

Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said: 

“We’re delighted to welcome Kathryn as CBI Wales Chair at what will undoubtedly be a very challenging time for the local economy. Kathryn brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role and is well placed to help us navigate Wales’ post-COVID recovery.”

In addition to her work with the CBI, Kathryn also serves as a member of the Thriving at Work Leadership Council set up by 10 Downing Street, is a founding member of Monumental Welsh Women (a group focused on delivering public art which represents historic Welsh Women), and is a Board Member of Maggie’s Cancer Centre in Cardiff. She also leads Eversheds Sutherland’s Cardiff Real Estate team, is a member of the Real Estate Executive, chairs our Shadow International Leadership Team and leads the Gender Network in Cardiff. She is also a Charitable Trust Trustee and is a member of the firm’s Appointments Panel.