A new advocate is working to put small businesses at the heart of county decision-making.
Matthew Webb, county councillor for Bicester North, was appointed Oxfordshire County Council’s small business champion on September 8.
He said he is committed to strengthening the voice of small and independent businesses.
Councillor Webb said: "Small businesses are incredibly important to Oxfordshire.
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"They create jobs, support our high streets and town centres, innovate, invest in their communities and contribute enormously to the character and prosperity of the places in which we live."
He acknowledged the pressures faced by small business owners, from rising costs and recruitment challenges to navigating regulation and infrastructure issues.
Councillor Webb said: "Small business owners face very real pressures.
"I want this role to provide a strong link between those businesses and the county council.
"A key part of that will be listening.
"I want to hear directly from businesses about what is working, what isn't, and where the council can either help or make it easier for businesses to succeed."
He also emphasised the importance of considering the impact of council policies on small businesses.
He said: "Sometimes relatively small changes can make a significant difference to somebody trying to run a business."
The small business champion role, like other member champion positions at the council, is unpaid and non-decision-making.
It is designed to support cabinet members and assist in policy development.
Councillor Webb plans to meet with businesses and business organisations across the county, including those in towns, villages, and rural areas.
He said: "One thing I am particularly keen to avoid is assuming that we already know what businesses need.
"Oxfordshire has an extraordinarily diverse economy, and the challenges facing a shop in one of our market towns may be very different from those facing a rural business, a manufacturer, a technology company or somebody who has just started working for themselves."
In addition to his role on the council, Councillor Webb has extensive professional experience in the small business sector, particularly in electronics distribution.
He has worked directly with customers and suppliers and is familiar with the regulatory, quality, and environmental standards that affect small businesses.
Councillor Laura Gordon, the council’s cabinet member for environment and economy, welcomed his appointment.
She said: "Small businesses are at the heart of our communities and are a key pillar of Oxfordshire’s economy.
"I’m looking forward to working with Councillor Webb to ensure we’re supporting small businesses across the county to thrive."
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