Claire Pearce has been appointed as the new Chair of the Board at the South West Business Council (SWBC). With over thirty years of experience across public and private sectors, Claire has a proven track record in delivering transformative projects that attract investment, uplift communities, and drive economic growth.
Her career highlights include leading nationally significant regeneration projects, such as the economic restructuring of Reading and Bridgwater, where her pro-growth and pro-business approach left a legacy of sustained economic development. As Chief Planning Officer for Sedgemoor District Council, Claire spearheaded the public sector response to Hinkley Point C, overseeing strategy, negotiation, and implementation. She has also provided strategic advice on Sizewell C and served as Director of Planning for the Salamanca Group, where she reimagined the Gravity project, securing the Tata/Agratas gigafactory for the UK.
In 2024, Claire founded Real Growth Ltd, offering independent advisory services to unlock transformational projects. Her current work in Dorset focuses on shaping a clean energy super cluster and attracting international investment, aligning with the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy.
Claire’s leadership has been widely recognised. She was named Institute of Economic Development (IED) Leader of the Year in 2024 and featured in The Planner RTPI Women of Influence in 2025. Her dedication, strategic vision, and measurable outcomes have been praised by industry leaders.
On her appointment, Claire expressed her enthusiasm for collaborating with the Board and members to strengthen the South West’s business voice, engage with investors, and champion the region as a hub for innovation and growth. She emphasised the importance of tackling barriers to investment and exploring opportunities to enhance the region’s role in key industrial sectors.
Paul Coles, CEO of SWBC, shared his excitement about working with Claire to support members and seize the significant opportunities ahead for the South West.