Essex Director Business Event 15 Sep 26
From overwhelmed to in control: An audience with Mandie Holgate, founder of BWN Insiders, keynote speaker & best-selling author of ‘Fight the Fear’
Location: Ipswich, Suffolk, University of Suffolk
Past event
Welcome
As part of our core mission – helping to run your business better – UK Director Magazines launched its event programme in 2023, where business leaders can learn more about what it takes to succeed.
Each meeting features presentations from keynote speakers, followed by a Q&A session with an expert panel, held under ‘Chatham House Rules’ to allow for free and frank discussion among peers.
The first event
The inaugural meeting, on 28th February 2023, took place at the University of Suffolk and saw just under a 100 business owners, directors, partners and senior decision makers come together to share ideas, discuss the key challenges they face, and learn how to take their business to the next level.
Held in association with sponsors: Ellisons, Ensors, and Pound Gates, and supported by Paddy & Scott’s and the University of Suffolk, the occasion provided a great opportunity to network with like-minded professionals and to glean expertise from a range of industry sectors.
Features
As the event got underway, it was our pleasure to introduce inspirational and motivational presentations from two keynote speakers, who recalled the highs and lows of running a business, and the difficulties they have had to overcome along the way.
First to talk was Minnie Moll, a proud Suffolk resident and chief executive of the Design Council – the UK’s national strategic advisor for design. Her previous roles also include chief executive of retailer Jarrold in Norwich, and joint chief executive of the East of England Co-op.
Environmentalist, entrepreneur, and Suffolk organic farmer, William Kendall, then spoke about his experiences of running several businesses and building brands.
A great response
The inaugural event was hailed a huge success by all who attended.
UK Director Magazines editor, Sue Wilcock, said: “We’re delighted with the feedback, which has been overwhelmingly positive. We wanted to stimulate a healthy discussion around the real issues that concern businesses in the area and create an opportunity for leaders to share their experiences and learn from others.
“We’re excited to see how we can now grow the experience for the benefit of everyone.”
Feedback
“Just attended the first ever ‘Helping to Run your Business Better’ event and I must say, it was truly inspiring! Overall, the event was a massive success … I can’t wait for the next one!”
“What I loved most about the event wasn’t only the opportunity to meet old faces and say ‘hello’ to new ones, it was the ability to share knowledge and experiences with people in a similar position. Despite hailing from a whole range of business backgrounds, it was reassuring to know that the issues keeping me awake are the same for everyone.”
“Congratulations – what a wonderful job you did! All the key elements were there: good venue, great speakers and panel, efficient organisation, and well-structured engagement. Thanks for creating a very informative and enjoyable event.”
Other events
Suffolk Director Business Event 12 May 26
Dig Deeper, Grow Bigger: An Audience with Guy and Jake Nicholls, TRU7 Group
UK Director Business Event 9 Dec 25
How to grow your own unicorn: an audience with Paul Hamilton, Founder and CEO of Halo
Watch our conversation here >>
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