Rossendale Borough Council appoints new business adviser

Rossendale Borough Council have appointed Tariq Ali as their new business adviser within the Economic Development Team. 

Tariq, who has been in business support for the last 25 years, comes with a wealth of experience and contacts.  

Tariq said: “I’m extremely excited to be starting this new role and the opportunity it will give me to help the businesses of Rossendale.  

“The council has worked hard over the last few years with its business offering, forging excellent links and partnerships with local businesses and because of this Rossendale is now an up-and-coming place. 

“I jumped at the opportunity to be part of their journey and hopefully make a positive difference and impact for the businesses of Rossendale.” 

As well as being available for 1-2-1 sessions Tariq also plans to offer workshops and pop-up business events across the borough.   

Tariq added: “As well as the workshops I will also be visiting business premises across the borough to run 1-2-1 sessions, whether it be crisis management, general business advice or to talk about growth plans.  

“The beauty of this role is that there are no restrictions on who I work with. So, if you’re a startup or in a pre-startup phase, or you’re a well-established business looking to grow, I’m able help and offer support.  

“My background in business support over the last 25 years means I have experience in all these areas and I’m looking forward to putting my knowledge to good use to help Rossendale businesses.” 

Alyson Barnes, council leader, said: “We’re extremely lucky to have someone with Tariq’s experience join us at the council.  

“Businesses are facing a lot of challenges at the moment, from huge hikes in energy costs to skills and recruitment difficulties and we as a council want to be available and help as much as we can. It’s important we make sure our businesses in Rossendale not only survive but are thriving. This then has a knock-on effect across the borough and impacts positively on the lives of our residents.” 

The business adviser role has been funded with money received via the Shared Prosperity Fund. (SPF). Successful allocation of the fund required local authorities to submit a three-year investment plan for their areas. Projects earmarked to receive funding in Rossendale include:   

• Improvements to Haslingden Market
• Developing an action plan for the centre of Waterfoot
• Creation of town improvement teams
• Improvements to Whitaker and Victoria Park
• Support for businesses through the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce Low Carbon Programme.

Tariq will be based in Rossendale Borough Council’s Futures Park offices but will be spending a large part of his time visiting businesses across the borough.  

If you would like further help or information, you can email Tariq directly on tariqali@rossendalebc.gov.uk

Picture caption: Tariq Ali & David Smurthwaite Director of Economic Development