Dr Justin Morris, chief executive of Bristol Zoological Society, has joined Business West’s Bristol Chamber & Initiative as president.
Dr Morris will work with businesses to identify the economic initiatives that have social and environmental benefits. He has announced "community and green growth" will be his focus.
The Bristol Initiative, Business West’s top tier of membership, comprises over 150 business leaders working together to influence the way the region is shaped, managed, and developed - with a particular focus on sustainable and inclusive growth, improving transport and mobility, improving education and skills, and tackling deprivation.
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Dr Morris brings more than 20 years’ experience of leading commercial, charitable and professional services. His previous roles include director of public engagement at the Natural History Museum and director of strategy and operations at the British Museum.
He said: “Bristol’s future is not just the responsibility of local authorities and politicians. Businesses need to be part of the discussion and drive change.”
Dr Morris added: “We now have a series of existential challenges to address such as climate change, habitat loss and population growth that require a more combined focus and long-term commitment. Cities have a specific and important role to address these challenges, and we need a strong, responsible business community to drive positive change, which is why the Bristol Initiative exists.”
Dr Morris will also support the Bristol Initiative’s involvement in the OurCity2030 project. It aims to support young people from low-income households, starting from inner city Bristol, to secure a median salary role by 2030.
He continued: “I am eager as President to work with businesses to identify initiatives to help address the challenges we face, and realise the opportunities. Bristol has an extraordinary wealth of talent and ideas. Business West, as the leading voice of business for our region, is well-placed to facilitate discussions to nurture these ideas into practical solutions.”
Victoria Matthews, Bristol director, said: “The Bristol Initiative will benefit hugely from Justin’s extensive leadership experience and his passion for his home city, environment and social issues. I look forward to working closely with him to progress our existing initiatives, and discover new ways to ensure a brighter, and fairer, future for Bristol.
