Yorkshire Business Leader welcomes industrial strategy, but calls for urgent action on Skills and SME support
A leading Yorkshire recruitment expert has welcomed the Government’s new Invest 2035 Industrial Strategy, describing it as a “step in the right direction”, but warns that without swift, targeted action, the region’s SMEs and future workforce risk being left behind.
Kelly Dunn, Managing Director of KD Recruitment, which supports employers across North and East Yorkshire, says the strategy’s long-term approach and regional focus are promising, but the Government must move quickly to deliver on its promises.
“This strategy finally gives us a long-term vision, which businesses in Yorkshire have been crying out for,” said Kelly Dunn. “It’s great to see investment in infrastructure, clean energy, manufacturing, and digital sectors, all of which align with our region’s strengths. But businesses need more than ambition. They need access, clarity, and action.”
The strategy, launched on 23 June, outlines a 10-year plan centred on innovation, sector growth, infrastructure and regional development, with a strong emphasis on skills and education reform.
Kelly, who also sits on the board of York Professionals and NYBEP (North Yorkshire Business and Education Partnership), and works with the board of the Scarborough Business Ambassadors on talent and STEM outreach, says the emphasis on skills is vital, but still underdeveloped.
“From a recruitment and workforce point of view, the skills gap is one of the biggest barriers to growth. The Government is right to focus on technical education, apprenticeships and upskilling, but employers, particularly SMEs, need to understand how they can actually access this support.”
“In regions like Yorkshire, the talent is here, but we need proper investment in careers advice, employer engagement, and real-life exposure for young people. Businesses like ours are already working with schools and colleges, but we need serious backing to scale that impact.”
She also highlighted the importance of helping smaller firms compete in a challenging market.
“Most of our regional economy is built on SMEs. They’re the ones creating jobs and developing local talent. But they’re often overlooked in favour of large national employers. This strategy needs to include practical, funded support that helps these businesses grow, innovate, and retain talent.”
While the strategy outlines an intention to work more closely with local government and business groups, Kelly says time is of the essence:
“It’s a strong framework, but now we need to see urgency. The Government must ensure that regional voices are heard and that investment reaches the businesses and communities that need it most. That’s how we make this more than just a plan, and turn it into real, long-term progress for Yorkshire.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
Kelly Dunn is Managing Director of KD Recruitment, working with businesses across North and East Yorkshire to recruit and retain professional talent.
She is a board director at NYBEP (North Yorkshire Business and Education Partnership), York Professionals and a Scarborough Business Ambassador, with a strong focus on connecting education and employment through STEM outreach and skills programmes.
The Invest 2035 Industrial Strategy was released by the UK Government on 23 June 2025. Full policy paper: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/industrial-strategy-policy-paper
Media Contact:
Kelly Dunn
07731304204
kelly.dunn@kdrecruitment.co.uk