If you follow the Chambers’ media output and socials, then I’m sure you will have already seen the news that I have made the decision to retire at the end of 2023.
I do not intend to repeat myself here as I like to use the blog to inform and opine. And you can read the official press release in our Daily Focus: Sara Williams OBE announces decision to retire – Daily Focus (daily-focus.co.uk)
However, I will quickly reiterate what an absolute pleasure it has been to work with you all. I could not have achieved anything without the cooperation, support hard work and determination which characterises our community. Nor could I have managed without my amazing team and the scores of people who freely give their time and expertise to serve on the Board of Directors, council, local area boards and member forums.
There, I said I was not going to go on about it! I still have three months left as CEO and there will be plenty of time for goodbyes before I finally depart in December.
So back to business and what a pleasure it was to attend the inaugural Staffordshire University Business Awards at the University’s Catalyst building last night.
Staffordshire Chambers were one of the sponsors and it was so nice to spend a relaxing evening amongst so many friends and Chamber Members. It was especially pleasant to be a guest so the worry about the running order was someone else’s!
The shortlisted entrants and winners were the real stars of the show and well done to the 30 nominees and congratulations to the 10 winners for their outstanding achievements.
A special thank you and congratulations to the staff at Staffordshire University for organising the night. And thank you to Vice Chancellor, Professor Martin Jones and the Director of Communities and Commercial Engagement, Martin Tideswell for your hospitality last night.
I know from personal experience that it takes a real collaborative effort to make a successful awards competition with a huge input of time, effort and money from sponsors, judges, the organising team and of course the entrants.
And finally, we have two very special events next week when we present our first Manufacturers’ Dinner at Uttoxeter Racecourse and a visit to The Hex Group, to celebrate National Manufacturing Day on Thursday 28th September.
It is right that we celebrate our manufacturing firms which makes up a significant proportion of our economy with diverse products from ceramics to automotive and food and beverages to precision engineering.
The dinner, taking place in the 1907 Suite, will give local manufacturers the opportunity to network, discuss sector issues and celebrate their achievements while hearing from two esteemed speakers, Michelin Tyre MD John Howe, and Vickie Milligan, MD of Cottage Delight.
You can book places here: Manufacturers’ Dinner – Staffordshire Chambers
Earlier in the day there is also the opportunity to join a free tour of precision sheet metal specialist engineers the The Hex Group at their Hixon factory. Places are limited so be sure to book as soon as possible.
Tour of The HEX Group – celebrating National Manufacturing Day – Staffordshire Chambers
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222, call the Business Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
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