Michael Cousens

Background

About Michael Cousens

I have over a decade of working, developing and managing projects in the economic development world of local government. Within these roles, I have provided direct support to businesses in applications to grant programs, developed business plans to justify investment, collaborated on central government business initiatives and built strategic account management relationships with major businesses across Norfolk and Suffolk to provide introductions and to advocate with other local stakeholders and teams on commercial challenges. I pride myself on being able to navigate the challenging landscape of local government services, support and local networks to provide concise recommendations to maximise the benefits companies receive in being located in the area. Within the local authorities, I have led and delivered successful initiatives, developed project proposals, bid for resources, developed delivery plans and managed those projects to completion. This has led to the establishment of Enterprise Zones, securing ERDF funding from Europe to deliver investment readiness support in partnership with the UEA, development of the Freeport East business plan, working with local partners including HPUK to designate the tax sites and securing approval for a plan following the Green Book Five Case Model. My degree in sustainable development provided me with a background in planning, economics and environmental science and throughout my career have continuously developed my project management skills, focusing on agile management, adapting Prince 2 principles and most recently completing an MBA with a focus on consultancy, investment and forecasting. I am committed to continuous development, reflection and work to go above and beyond expectations. In my spare time I am a board trustee of a local charity, within which we manage, develop and plan the most effective use of community land and assets to provide an income to support the poor and in need within the community. I strongly believe in delivering value and exploring the most effective routes to addressing the challenges at hand. Alongside direct career development, I have a passion for developing technical skills, I am proficient in website development, database design, email and media server management, graphics design and video editing. I am currently exploring AI implementation alongside CNC operations.