Howard Dawber, appointed Deputy Mayor of London for Business, shares his insights on the capital's role in boosting the UK’s economy. He discusses the balance of tradition and innovation in architecture and the evolution of business support services in London. Howard highlights the launch of Grow London Local and the significance of public-private partnerships for urban projects like Crossrail. He emphasizes the need for revitalizing small businesses and high streets, advocating for community engagement and collaboration in driving economic growth.
London's economy drives a significant portion of the UK's GDP, necessitating a focused growth plan to create 150,000 jobs.
The podcast highlights the need for a proactive political mindset that embraces innovation while addressing challenges like globalization and climate change.
Real estate is seen as vital for urban growth, requiring improved public perception and collaborative efforts to attract diverse talent.
Deep dives
London's Economic Role
London contributes significantly to the UK's economy, accounting for nearly a quarter of the national GDP. It is recognized as the engine of growth, consistently outperforming other regions in year-on-year economic development. The Mayor's Office emphasizes the importance of fostering this growth, not only for London's benefit but for the entire UK economy. A focused growth plan is in development, aiming to create 150,000 new jobs in the capital and ensuring that London remains a key driver of national economic progress.
Insights from U.S. Politics
The discussion draws parallels between U.S. and UK politics, highlighting differences in attitudes and approaches. It emphasizes the importance of positivity and forward-thinking in political discourse, as demonstrated at the recent U.S. Democratic Convention. Such events illustrate the essential debate regarding whether societies should seek to return to past norms or embrace innovation in response to challenges like globalization and climate change. The conversation advocates for a proactive, solution-oriented mindset that prioritizes looking forward rather than dwelling on past methodologies.
The Real Estate Sector's Importance
Real estate is acknowledged as a crucial sector in London, serving as a foundation for economic growth and development. The Deputy Mayor aims to enhance the public perception of property development, moving beyond traditional negative stereotypes. By advocating for the sector, the model underscores the significance of celebrating property professionals who contribute positively to urban growth and environmental sustainability. The goal is to elevate real estate to the same esteem as other esteemed industries, fostering a culture that attracts a diverse range of talent.
Public-Private Partnerships
Successful public-private partnerships are essential for funding and managing large-scale urban developments in London. The conversation discusses previous collaborations, such as the funding model that reduced costs for transport projects while simultaneously allowing for property development opportunities. There is a call to innovate funding mechanisms, such as land value capture and TIFs, to effectively harness growth-related revenue. These collaborative efforts can help finance critical infrastructure and stimulate further investment in the city.
A Vision for London's Future
The Deputy Mayor articulates aspirations for his term, focusing on revitalizing small businesses and high streets while fostering inclusivity in skill development across diverse communities. He emphasizes the need for a coherent strategy that adapts to the evolving local economy and meets changing consumer needs. Enhancing support services for small businesses is paramount, along with promoting vocational education and apprenticeship opportunities in growing sectors. By the end of his term, he aims to see a renewed energy in London's economy that encourages social mobility and economic aspiration for all residents.
Howard was appointed Deputy Mayor of London for Business in December 2023.
Before joining the Mayor’s team, Howard worked in business for thirty years, spending 17 years as Managing Director for Strategy of the Canary Wharf Group. At Canary Wharf, Howard was involved in the development of the Elizabeth Line and supporting the 2012 Olympic Bid and Olympic Legacy as well as commercial inward investment projects in tech, health & life sciences, and financial services.
He has been an active member of business organisations including Business LDN, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, TheCityUK and the London Property Alliance.
He is a trustee of “The Line” art walk along the River Lea. Formerly Chair of the East End Community Foundation (2013-2022) he is now a patron of the charity, and a patron and former Vice-President of UK Youth.
Howard was Chair of the Business Advisory Board for the University of East London School of Business and Law and has been a visiting lecturer at the School.
He was a Parliamentary Candidate for the Labour Party and is the Chair of Labour Friends of Bangladesh and Labour Friends of USA.
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