Dr Justin Morris, Chief Executive of Bristol Zoological Society, has said “community and green growth” will be his focus as President of Business West’s Bristol Chamber & Initiative.

The Bristol Initiative, Business West’s top tier of membership, comprises over 150 business leaders working together to positively influence the way our region is shaped, managed, and developed - with a particular focus on sustainable and inclusive growth, improving transport and mobility, improving education and skills, and tackling deprivation. 

Dr Morris, who is Bristol born and bred, brings more than 20 years’ experience of leading commercial, charitable and professional services. His previous roles include Director of Public Engagement at the Natural History Museum and Director of Strategy and Operations at the British Museum.  

In his new role as Chamber & Initiative President, Dr Morris is committed to acting on behalf of the community, not just on behalf of business. He said “Bristol’s future is not just the responsibility of local authorities and politicians. Businesses need to be part of the discussion and drive change.”  

Speaking at his first Bristol Initiative meeting on Wednesday 6th December, Dr Morris described how our society has experienced an unprecedented series of changes and impacts over the past few years, the cumulative effect of which are some very challenging social, environmental, and economic headwinds. 

“We now have a series of existential challenges to address such as climate change, habitat loss and population growth that require a more combined focus and long-term commitment. Cities have a specific and important role to address these challenges, and we need a strong, responsible business community to drive positive change, which is why the Bristol Initiative exists.” 

Dr Morris will also support the Bristol Initiative’s involvement in the OurCity2030 project. It aims to help young people from low-income households, starting from inner city Bristol, to secure a median salary role by 2030. 

Dr Morris also wants to drive green growth, making it a greater focus for the business community.  He believes there is an opportunity for Bristol to be a real leader in the UK and across the globe.   

Next year, Dr Morris will set up an informal committee to advise Business West of opportunities in Bristol that it has identified as important, and to ensure member feedback is central to the Initiative’s activity.  

Dr Morris said “I am eager as President to work with businesses to identify initiatives to help address the challenges we face, and realise the opportunities. Bristol has an extraordinary wealth of talent and ideas. Business West, as the leading voice of business for our region, is well-placed to facilitate discussions to nurture these ideas into practical solutions.”  

“City dwellers across Bristol must experience the benefits of urban life for the city to thrive. It is in all our interests that our city is a pleasant place to live, one that is easy to commute and one that offers opportunities for all.”  

Victoria Matthews, Bristol Director, said “The Bristol Initiative will benefit hugely from Justin’s extensive leadership experience and his passion for his home city, environment and social issues. I look forward to working closely with him to progress our existing initiatives, and discover new ways to ensure a brighter, and fairer, future for Bristol.