IoD supports tech directors to thrive

Institute of Directors: IOD East

It may seem daunting to start or scale up a technology business in the present climate, but many directors across the East of England are succeeding at precisely that. It is no exaggeration to say that we are leading the nation when it comes to innovation.

The IoD is a thriving membership community for directors in the East England and the UK. We are committed to supporting tech company directors on their journey through our world-class professional development programme, our influence on government and our ability to forge connections between people.

We want to create the best conditions for tech companies to thrive.

Speaking out

That is why we have always spoken out, without fear or favour, on behalf of our members. We advance the case for business in government, parliament, the media and other influential forums. Most importantly, we listen to our members to ensure that our advocacy work is driven by what matters most.

These are exciting times for the East. Initiatives such as the Cambridge Norwich Tech Corridor are bringing together business and political leaders around the shared goal of making our region a top-tier destination for tech businesses, people and investors.

We also need to plan for the long term. How do we maximise the sustainable growth potential of the Oxford-Cambridge Arc? How do we transform our agricultural heritage to support a world-leading agri-tech sector?

We must also stay on top of the trends that will drive the next wave of growth and innovation in the region, from med-tech to gaming. And as cybercriminals continue to develop new tactics to target businesses, we need to stay on our toes to combat increasingly sophisticated attacks.

Let’s keep talking

Let’s keep the conversations going. If you are starting out on your directorial journey and would like to learn more or share your experiences, we would be delighted to hear from you.

New Chair for IoD Essex

The IoD has appointed Paul Durrant to lead its Essex branch. Paul is an independent sales specialist with a passion for sustainability. Paul is also a school mentor for the social mobility charity Career Ready, an ambassador for Crimestoppers Essex and a volunteer for St Luke’s Hospice in Basildon.

Paul said: “Having spent my whole career in sales before launching my own business in 2014, I am now focused on helping SMEs to enable their sales and grow their business. Given businesses’ wide-ranging and well-documented challenges, it has never been more important for directors to support one another.”