Small business commissioner appoints new advisory board members amid push on late payments

"The appointments come as the Government considers strengthening the powers of the Commissioner, Emma Jones, as part of a broader package of reforms outlined in its Small Business Plan. The move reflects mounting concern over the scale of late payments across the UK economy, which are estimated to cost businesses £11 billion annually and contribute to the closure of around 38 firms every day."

"Whittaker joins with a strong background in financial services and corporate communications, having held senior roles at Funding Circle, Vanquis Banking Group, Metro Bank and TSB. Her experience is expected to support the OSBC's increasing focus on digital tools and data-driven approaches to improving payment practices, as well as strengthening engagement with SMEs and lenders."

"Shorthouse, meanwhile, brings deep expertise in public policy and economic reform. As founder of Bright Blue and a commissioner at the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, he has played a prominent role in shaping UK policy debates. His experience across think tanks and advisory bodies is expected to be particularly valuable as the Commissioner navigates potential legislative changes."

The Office of the Small Business Commissioner has appointed Abigail Whittaker from Funding Circle and Ryan Shorthouse from Bright Blue to its advisory board, effective April. These appointments strengthen the OSBC's capacity as the Government considers expanding the Commissioner's powers through its Small Business Plan. Late payments cost UK businesses approximately £11 billion annually and contribute to around 38 business closures daily. Whittaker brings financial services expertise and experience with digital tools and SME engagement, while Shorthouse contributes public policy knowledge and experience with legislative reform. Both appointments position the OSBC to enhance payment practices across large corporates and improve support for small businesses.

Read at Business Matters