A North East entrepreneur has taken the lead of one of the country’s largest business organisations.
Martin McTague, who lives in Darlington and has two businesses based in the North East, has been appointed national chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), which represents thousands of small firms around the UK.
Previously vice-chair of the organisation and head of its policy operations, Mr McTague has been involved with the FSB for more than 20 years while running three consultancies, two of which are based in the North East.
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He said: “I’m passionate about promoting and supporting entrepreneurs and giving the UK’s 5.5m small businesses and self-employed a powerful voice.
“These businesses are the beating heart of both the economy and communities right across the country. There has never been a more important time to make sure their interests are represented at the highest levels, as the costs and challenges of running a small business intensify.
“Small firms are absolutely crucial to the economic recovery, bringing innovation and dynamism, creating jobs, growth and opportunities. They account for 60% of private sector employment in the UK and make up 99% of all businesses. But they face significant barriers which I’m determined to pull down – from growth-inhibiting tax hikes to poor treatment by big business clients.
“Big businesses must become better corporate citizens with their supply chains, including when it comes to stamping out poor payment practices, reducing bureaucracy, and gifting through the Apprenticeship Levy. I want to use the opportunity as national chair to offer advice and assistance to larger firms wanting to do the right thing and back small business.
“FSB has a proud and successful track record of being a powerful voice heard in governments, opposition parties and boardrooms across the UK. As part of a new leadership team alongside Tina McKenzie; as well as chair, internal affairs Melanie Ulyatt; and the rest of the board; I’m committed to making sure small businesses are fully supported, represented, and their interests are wired into the DNA of decision-makers at all levels.”
Mr McTague takes over from outgoing national chair, Mike Cherry, who has held the office for six years. He is replaced as chair of policy and advocacy by Tina McKenzie, a business champion from Northern Ireland.
The appointments were confirmed at the FSB’s annual general meeting.
