Vice-Chancellor joins panel at 2023 Social Mobility Conference

Released: 28.06.23

Professor Claire Taylor, Vice-Chancellor at Plymouth Marjon University, will join the social mobility panel at the South West Business Council 2023 Conference ‘Social Mobility in the Workplace: Tapping into Talent and Building the Workforce’. Alongside Professor Taylor will be colleagues from other major South West organisations including Babcock, Live West, and Petroc College.  

This pivotal event is dedicated to the advancement of social mobility and its profound impact on cultivating a resilient future workforce. It is becoming increasingly essential for businesses to comprehend and actively participate in enhancing social mobility, as it has become an indispensable component for their own survival.  

Through creating opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds, businesses foster a workforce with a broader range of skills and experiences. Consequently, this diminishes the prevalence of "groupthink," stimulates the generation of fresh ideas, and enhances organisational decision-making capabilities – all of which are pivotal in effectively navigating technological disruptions and uncertainty. However, when it comes to social mobility and productivity, the South West significantly lags behind other regions. 

Professor Taylor has a keen background in social mobility, addressing issues of social inequality. Historically, Claire worked closely with the Students’ Union at Wrexham Glyndwr University where she was Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Chair of the Board for Alpha, a social housing provider on the Wirral, and a leader of the ‘2025’ social movement across North Wales which seeks to end health inequalities. 

Professor Taylor said:  

"Social mobility is not a mere aspiration, it is a powerful catalyst for transformation and progress. As educators and leaders, we bear the responsibility of equipping our students and staff with the tools and opportunities they need to break through barriers and realise new possibilities. It is an honour to attend and speak on the social mobility panel. Together, we can create an environment where every individual, regardless of their background, is enabled to thrive and be part of shaping a more inclusive and empowered society." 

Under the guidance of Sir Michael Barber, a renowned delivery expert and former Head of the Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit under Tony Blair, the conference event will convene business and civic leaders in the region. Together, they will commit to collaborative engagement on crucial issues. 

The South West Business Council 2023 Conference takes place on Monday 03 July at the Sandy Park Conference Centre, Exeter. Find more information and tickets here.