You are here: Home » Project updates »
Manufacturers and partners came together at Kenward House on Wednesday 30th September for the latest Kent & Medway Manufacturing Focus Group meeting.
The session provided an opportunity to consider the challenges facing manufacturing and engineering businesses, the support available to employers, and how business feedback can help influence policy and local priorities.
The group was joined by Tudor Price, CEO of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, who outlined how the Chamber represents the business voice locally, regionally and nationally. His presentation explored the Chamber’s policy and advocacy work through national representation, engagement with Kent and Medway stakeholders, and relationships with district and borough councils.
This includes using evidence from businesses to contribute to consultations and policy discussions, supported by national activity such as the Quarterly Economic Survey. At a local level, the Chamber also participates in groups covering economic development, employment, skills, business crime, investment, infrastructure and growth.
The discussion reinforced the importance of manufacturers sharing their experiences and priorities. Employer feedback helps build a clearer picture of the pressures affecting the sector and strengthens the evidence available when local and national decisions are being shaped.
LSIP update and sector insights
Camilla Maurice also delivered an update from the Kent & Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan, sharing relevant sector information and opportunities with the group.
The update covered changes to careers and employment support from 1 October 2026. The developing Jobs and Careers Service aims to create a more connected route between careers guidance, job searching, skills support and employment. Support will be available through online tools, telephone guidance and personalised appointments, alongside existing resources such as job profiles, skills assessments and course searches.
Employers can contribute by making vacancies, apprenticeships and progression routes more visible, providing current information about their skills requirements and considering practical activities such as workplace visits, employer talks, work experience and supported recruitment. Connections through the LSIP, colleges, training providers and employment services can also help strengthen the local talent pipeline.
Practical support and opportunities for manufacturers
Attendees were also signposted to several initiatives and events relevant to the sector, including:
The Kent & Medway Manufacturing Focus Group continues to bring employers and partners together to share intelligence, highlight support and strengthen the connection between industry needs, skills provision and wider economic priorities.
Thank you to Tudor Price for joining the session, to Kenward House for hosting, and to everyone who contributed to the discussion.
