Sandwell Business Ambassador Chair Meets High Sheriff of the West Midlands

22nd August 2025

Alan Taylor, Chair of Sandwell Business Ambassadors (SBA) and Managing Director of MiGlass Ltd, recently met with Mark Smith, the High Sheriff of the West Midlands, to discuss how business leaders in Sandwell can work more closely with civic partners to create meaningful social impact.

The conversation centred on opportunities for collaboration across several key areas of interest to the High Sheriff:

• Encouraging business leaders to become Magistrates: helping to strengthen the justice system with skilled and experienced local leaders.
• Supporting offenders back into society: creating employment opportunities and offering guidance to prevent reoffending and ensure individuals can build positive futures.
• Helping care leavers thrive: providing mentoring, support and access to training or work for young people leaving the care system.

Both the Sandwell Story and the Smethwick Partnership Board were also highlighted during discussions, recognising the value of working together to influence positive outcomes and ensure the local community can prosper.

Business leaders driving change

Alan Taylor said “As Ambassadors, we have a responsibility not only to champion business growth in Sandwell but also to make sure that growth translates into real opportunities for people across our borough. Working with the High Sheriff and other agencies is a powerful way to help us achieve that.”

The SBA is a voluntary group of business leaders who give their time and expertise to support both the business community and Sandwell Council. By creating an environment where businesses can grow and prosper, the Ambassadors aim to ensure that growth also benefits wider society.

Find out more about them.