New Small Business Commissioner Appointed to Tackle Late Payments
25-06-2025
Emma Jones CBE, founder of Enterprise Nation, has been appointed as the new Small Business Commissioner. Taking up the role on 23 June 2025, Jones succeeds Liz Barclay and will lead efforts to address late payments and improve payment practices across the UK.
The role of the Small Business Commissioner was created to support the UK’s 5.5 million small businesses, particularly in their dealings with larger firms. Late payment remains a persistent issue for small business owners and the self-employed. Recent research from Intuit QuickBooks found that, on average, SMEs were owed £21,400 in late payments during 2024.
During Liz Barclay’s tenure, the Fair Payment Code was launched in December 2024. The code encourages businesses to commit to faster and fairer payment practices, and over 300 businesses have already signed up. Barclay also helped shape upcoming proposals for further legislation aimed at improving payment terms – with a major consultation expected later this year.
The new Small Business Commissioner said: “Having done it myself, I know the commitment it takes to start and grow a successful business.”
In her new role, Jones is expected to continue developing practical tools and guidance to help small businesses resolve payment disputes and access support.