Call for closer partnership with business ahead of May elections

WITH just over 100 days to go until the Senedd elections in May, Institute of Directors Wales has published a new manifesto urging the next Welsh Government to work more closely with business and create the conditions needed for long-term, sustainable economic growth across Wales.

The manifesto draws on IoD Wales’ latest State of the Nation survey, which highlights the key pressures facing firms. Skills shortages remain the biggest concern for businesses in Wales, cited by 39 per cent of respondents. This is followed by policy uncertainty at 36 per cent, and the rising cost of labour and materials at 29 per cent — challenges the organisation warns could constrain investment, productivity and growth if left unresolved.

To unlock Wales’ economic potential, IoD Wales is calling on the next administration at the Senedd to simplify access to business support by improving the visibility of advice and funding, while investing in infrastructure that directly supports economic development and connectivity across sectors.

The manifesto also urges ministers to embed skills development at every stage — from education and vocational routes through to lifelong learning and professional development for directors — in order to address both current and future skills gaps. In addition, it calls for greater long-term certainty by aligning investment with sectors where Wales has clear strengths and adopting a more place-based approach to economic development.

Cross-border collaboration, particularly with England, is also highlighted as a priority to make better use of shared resources, talent and market opportunities.

Commenting on the launch, Richard Selby MBE DL, co-founder of Pro Steel Engineering and national chair of IoD Wales, said the manifesto was being published at a “pivotal moment” for the country.

He said: “With major economic choices ahead, the next Welsh Government must focus on creating a genuinely pro-business environment that supports entrepreneurship, encourages innovation and attracts investment across all parts of Wales.

“This manifesto sets out a positive and practical vision for how collaboration, strong governance and responsible leadership can help unlock sustainable growth.”

Marc Strathie, senior policy adviser for devolved nations at the Institute of Directors, said the document reflected extensive engagement with members and the realities facing firms on the ground.

He added: “From persistent skills shortages to ongoing policy uncertainty, these are real challenges for Welsh businesses. The manifesto sets out practical, deliverable recommendations, and directors across Wales stand ready to play their part in building a more confident, enterprising and prosperous nation.”

The IoD Wales manifesto is available online and can be accessed in both English and Welsh.