About This Episode
What does it take to deliver fair and meaningful growth? Joining Michael today on Change Makers is Kate Willard OBE – government-appointed envoy for the Thames Estuary and a champion of fair growth.
Kate’s career has been anything but conventional. From starting out as an actress and director to working in post-Soviet Eastern Europe, her journey is one of bold decisions and a deep commitment to making a difference.
Now, as Chair of the Thames Estuary Growth Board, Kate is on a mission to unlock the potential of one of the UK’s most vital economic regions – driving innovation, attracting investment, and ensuring that growth is both sustainable and fair, ultimately creating 1.3 million jobs, one million homes, and £190 billion in economic value.
In this episode, she and Michael discuss why fair growth matters, what it takes to make it a reality, and how her diverse career has shaped her leadership today.
Content warning: This podcast episode contains strong language which may not be suitable for all audiences
Kate Willard OBE
Kate Willard OBE serves as the Chair of the Thames Estuary Growth Board and as Government-appointed Envoy for the Thames Estuary, driving opportunity and growth one of the UK’s most significant growth areas.
With extensive experience in logistics and transport, Kate’s career spans a diverse range of sectors. From an apprenticeship at the Theatre Royal to leadership roles in regional aviation, including chairing the board at Teesside International Airport, she brings a wealth of knowledge to infrastructure development and regional growth initiatives. She is also a Churchill Fellow and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.
Kate’s leadership is marked by a drive for Fair Growth, which she has championed throughout her tenure at the Thames Estuary Growth Board.
