The City Region Deal is a £1.3 billion investment over the next 15 years that aims to accelerate economic growth and create opportunities for citizens across the entire South-East of Scotland.

The UK and Scottish governments are partnering with six local authorities (Edinburgh, East Lothian, Fife, Midlothian, Scottish Borders and West Lothian), Edinburgh’s universities and colleges and the private and third sectors to deliver the Deal.

Anyone working in the private or third sectors in the region covered by the Deal can apply for the REC.

The role of the council is to advise the decision-making body, the Joint Committee, on aspects of the Deal. Members will support the implementation of the Deal and provide a consensus from their sector based on their industry knowledge. Appointed individuals will engage with their own networks to help capture a wide range of views and champion the Deal nationally and internationally to encourage investment opportunities.

City of Edinburgh Councillor Adam McVey, chair of the Edinburgh and South-East Scotland Leaders’ Group, said: “The Regional Enterprise Council will be a pivotal part of the governance structure for the City Region Deal.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals from the private and third sector who are passionate about the place they live and work to contribute to a better future for all. They will support the delivery of the Deal’s ambitious plans for sustainable and inclusive growth that benefits everyone across the capital and the Lothians and from Fife down to the Borders. The Council will be a key component in helping to fully capitalise on the opportunities the Deal investment creates.”

The REC will comprise 12 members and will be representative of the region’s diverse economy and demographics. All local authority areas will be represented by at least one member with significant operations in their area and individuals will come from a range of organisation sizes.

Councillor Shona Haslam, leader of Scottish Borders Council, said: “The REC will play an important role in the City Region Deal and we want a group of members that not only represents all the region’s key sectors but also all sizes of business and every geographic area. I’d encourage anyone from our local business or third sector community interested in the role to find out more and help us maximise the benefits of the deal for the Scottish Borders and the city region as a whole.”

Anyone interested can apply at http://www.acceleratinggrowth.org.uk/rec.