We're back after the summer break, and as the political season gets underway, devolution is once again at the top of the policy agenda. Questions are growing about whether greater local powers can help unlock economic growth across the UK.
In this episode, host Ben Walker is joined by IoD Chief Economist, Anna Leach and Professor Philip McCann, Sir Terry Leahy Chair in Urban and Regional Economics at Alliance Manchester Business School, to explore the economic case for devolution.
Together, they discuss whether greater powers for city-regions have delivered tangible results, what Andy Burnham's devolution agenda could mean for growth and investment, and how policymakers can balance local autonomy with national priorities.
9 Jul 2026
Andy Burnham, business confidence and devolution
Business confidence remains fragile amid economic uncertainty and continued political speculation about the UK's economic direction.
In this episode, IoD Chief Economist Anna Leach joins host Ben Walker to discuss the IoD’s latest business confidence index reading and what it tells us about the state of the economy.
Together, they explore ideas being floated by Prime Minister-in-waiting Andy Burnham to boost growth, the impact of tax speculation on business confidence, and whether greater devolution can help unlock economic potential across the UK.
They also discuss how political uncertainty is influencing investment decisions and what the next Prime Minister should do to rebuild business confidence.
16 Jun 2026
Six months on: how the Employment Rights Act is reshaping business
Six months on from Royal Assent, the Employment Rights Actis beginning to reshape the UK’s labour market - but for many businesses, uncertainty and concern remain. With key provisions coming into force and others still to follow, employers are grappling with what the reforms mean in practice, and how to prepare for what’s next.
In this episode, Alex Hall‑Chen (IoD Principal Policy Advisor for Employment) and Jim Wright CDir (International Employment Law Partner at Knights) join host Ben Walker to discuss the current state of play.
Together, they explore why business sentiment has deteriorated since the Act came into force, how organisations are adjusting their hiring and the biggest risks for employers over the next 12 months. They also discuss the impact on IoD members and what practical steps employers can take now to navigate the next phase of implementation.
Who has been a guest on Directors' Briefing
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Dr Roger Barker
Hugo Legh
Anna Leach
Daniel Susskind
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5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 40 / 100
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68
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YouTube
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Engagement
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Ben Walker host the show. Published by Institute of Directors.
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