Ambition: Shevaun Haviland Strives to Reform Business Rates
Shevaun Haviland, the dynamic director general of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), is a self-proclaimed “classic extrovert.” This quality serves her well in her role, particularly as she stepped into the spotlight following a sex scandal that rocked the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the BCC’s main competitor.
As the CBI faced backlash and lost prominent members such as John Lewis and Aviva, the BCC saw an opportunity to step in and fill the void. Haviland, unapologetic about seizing the moment, believes that the country’s economy and businesses need a strong voice, especially as a General Election looms.
Under Haviland’s leadership since 2021, the BCC wasted no time in strengthening its organization. Representing 70,000 businesses of different sizes employing a total of six million people, the BCC established a national business council. This allows local chamber members to have representation on a UK-wide level for an additional subscription fee. Although the exact number of firms that have joined remains undisclosed, notable companies like BP, Heathrow airport, and IHG, have become founding members.
Despite its reputation for being somewhat old-fashioned, the BCC, led by the forthright and stylish Haviland, has gained prominence as she engaged with top government officials in Downing Street. Haviland’s experience in the government and diverse roles in big and small businesses positions her well to tackle the significant issues affecting the BCC and the economy.
She has identified two critical areas of interest: the “digital future” encompassing artificial intelligence development and the “net zero” green agenda. However, she also feels passionately about the traditional topic of the British High Street. Haviland believes that reforming business rates, a tax that retailers despise, can play a crucial role in reviving town centers. One idea she proposes is a sliding scale of business rates that would allow new companies to establish themselves before facing substantial tax bills.
Haviland acknowledges the difficult circumstances businesses face due to inflation and rising interest rates. Many business owners she has spoken with claim that the current challenges are unparalleled in their 40-year careers. Beyond business matters, Haviland also stands up for women’s rights, expressing dismay over the lack of progress and going as far as shedding light on the regressive state of affairs in certain countries.
On the topic of “woke capitalism,” Haviland disagrees with Terry Smith, a fund manager known for criticizing brands with a purpose. She suggests that Smith’s focus on short-term gains overlooks the long-term benefits for both people and the planet. Haviland believes that smaller and medium-sized businesses, unlike large corporate entities, consistently prioritize the well-being of their staff and the environment.
Leading the BCC, an organization dedicated to engaging with businesses from the ground up, Haviland wholeheartedly supports and applauds corporate Britain. Despite the challenges it currently faces, such as rising interest rates, inflation, and companies moving their listings to the US, Haviland believes in the UK’s incredible capabilities and talent. She urges caution against talking down the country and instead calls for confidence and optimism.
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