This thesis investigates the case of the Expert Panel on Resources Management for Wales (EPRM). The research problem addressed is whether the EPRM process was a novel, repeatable and effective method for business to inform public policy, specifically in the area of business-environment policy making. The aim of the research was to create a case study that included: observations of the EPRM process and its wider context; a comparison of the process with that used traditionally; and an assessment of the effectiveness of the process and its outcomes. A review of the literature suggests that the incidences of research and political theory being proactively and practically applied to policy making by those who are political or social science practitioners are few. Much of the research in this field occurs independent of policy operation, and is often observational and critical in its nature, creating an opportunity for novel study and practical input to the policy making process. Using participant observation, documentary evidence, survey methods and interviews, the case study presented here provides an insight into the workings of the EPRM in the context of business-environment policy making in post-devolution Wales. It shows that in practice the Panel's work was novel and, although suffering from some limitations, it could be suitable for use in other policy areas and by other non-autonomous devolved governments. The thesis concludes that the EPRM process resulted in viable, sensible public policy recommendations that were the product of a valid evidence base and credible public participation, and that it was a fit for purpose, effective and innovative method for developing policy ideas.