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The Master Cutler\\'s Report, 2010-2011

THE MASTER CUTLER'S REPORT, 2010-2011

I have had a thoroughly enjoyable year but came in knowing that I would not achieve all I wanted in my tenure. My main theme has therefore been continuity and I have started a number of things with the agreement of the Wardens in order that they will continue into the future.  Other themes throughout the year have been about improving the Company’s relevance, including closer links with Freemen and Friends.  We have also looked at ways to grow the manufacturing sector, encourage innovation, attract investment and develop the appropriate skills. 

We find ourselves in ‘interesting times’, the economic situation is still difficult, the financial sector remains under pressure, the public sector is retrenching and it is clear that internal spending cannot be used to spur growth.  Growth needs to be export driven and this has meant that manufacturing has risen up the political agenda.  This is an opportunity for us and we have seized it.  As Master, I became the titular head of the Global Manufacturing Festival in March.  The Master retains this position and the Company is now at the forefront of plans for a smaller festival next year and a more major event in 2013. 

We have engaged more with Freemen, both through the recently formed Freemen’s Committee and directly.  As a result, I have been able to take forward ideas and concerns from the Freemen to meetings I have had with MPs, other influential people and the Press. I have also spent some time listening to Friend’s views, they are very important to the Region and have an interest in growing manufacturing as they often support the companies involved. 

I have met most MPs and many of the local politicians in the Region but have also been able to pass the message further afield.  Along with various events I have attended in London, I also hosted the Lord Mayor of London and his Sheriffs at the Forfeit Feast at the end of July.  In addition to the Feast and the now traditional Q and A from business leaders, he also visited two factories.  They were selected because they are seeking business in Africa and the Lord Mayor was due to lead a trade mission to that Continent in September.  He went away with two very clear messages – that Sheffield City Region manufactures high quality products and that it is a great place to invest.  

I have been significantly impressed by the esteem in which the Company is held.  The Mistress and I have been well received and generously entertained at engagements in the City of London, Edinburgh, Bristol and York as well as throughout Yorkshire. 

I and the Mistress Cutler have been privileged this year to see a great deal of charitable activity.  It is humbling to see how much is being done in this area and particularly by the people involved who contribute a great deal for no return other than the knowledge that they have helped in difficult circumstances.  

I mentioned skills earlier on and this has been one of the major themes of the year.  We held a dine and dialogue in February to bring together leaders from business and the education sector.  The impact was remarkable.  In the past, communication has been limited and this helped both sides to understand the requirements and challenges of the other.  It is anticipated that education will be a continuing theme and, indeed, next year the Company will establish an Education Committee to lead on this.