This year marks a major milestone for City-REDI as we celebrate a decade of research, impact, and collaboration. Over the past 10 years, we’ve grown from a bold idea into a leading centre for regional economic development, shaping policy and practice across the UK and beyond.
To mark this anniversary, we’re launching a special blog series that looks back on our journey—highlighting key projects, partnerships, and the people who’ve helped make it all happen.
The next part of our series is from Elizabeth Goodyear, our Project Manager, reflecting on her time so far with City-REDI.
As City-REDI marks its 10th anniversary, I’ve been reflecting on my own journey here and the incredible evolution of the team, the work, and the impact we’ve made together.
Reflecting on the Past
I joined City-REDI in 2021 as a project manager, stepping into a dynamic environment that was already buzzing with ideas and ambition. My most memorable moment without a doubt, has been my involvement in the LPIP Hub. It’s been a privilege to lead on this initiative, especially the strand focused on professional standards in partnership working.
Since I started, my role has grown significantly, I now manage a team of five and look after over 30 projects at any one time. It’s a challenge, but also a testament to the trust and responsibility City-REDI places in its people.
Over the past decade, I believe our biggest achievement has been the depth and strength of our relationships with regional partners. These collaborations have enabled us to influence policy, shape research agendas, and make a tangible difference across the region. Whether it’s through evidence-based insights, convening stakeholders, or supporting inclusive economic development, City-REDI’s impact has been wide-reaching and meaningful.
Culture & Collaboration
The working culture here is fun and friendly, there is a real sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. What makes City-REDI unique is the sheer breadth of knowledge within the team, and the diversity of backgrounds and nationalities. It’s a melting pot of perspectives, which makes for richer conversations and more innovative thinking.
One standout example of collaboration for me has been our various large-scale events and conferences. They’ve brought together a wealth of partners from across sectors, creating space for dialogue, learning, and shared action. It’s in these moments that you really see the power of collective effort.
If I had to describe City-REDI in three words? I’d go with collaborative, insightful, and inclusive.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the next 10 years, I’d love to see City-REDI continue to focus on areas that drive real-world impact, particularly around inclusive growth and the role of place-based policy in tackling inequalities. There’s also huge potential in deepening our work on professional standards and partnership working, especially as cross-sector collaboration becomes increasingly vital.
My hope for the future is that City-REDI continues to be a space where people feel empowered to innovate, challenge, and grow. I’d love to see us build even stronger bridges between research and practice, and to keep amplifying voices that are often underrepresented in policy conversations.
A Message to the Team
To everyone at City-REDI – thank you. Thank you for your brilliance, your generosity, and your commitment to making a difference. It’s been a joy to be part of this journey, and I’m excited for what’s next.
Here’s to the next 10 years!
This blog was written by Elizabeth Goodyear, Project Manager at City-REDI, University of Birmingham.
Disclaimer:
The views expressed in this analysis post are those of the authors and not necessarily those of City-REDI, WMREDI or the University of Birmingham.