Over the summer, we have continued to work hard to make our regional presence, even more relevant for our members. We are for example, continuing to strengthen our seven teams across the region, who do an important job in supporting our events.

Our board continues to go from strength-to-strength, in fact, we are delighted to welcome a number of new ambassadors.  Barbara Stopher, a skilled and knowledgeable company director and marketer, has now been confirmed as our Small Business Ambassador and Leighton Jones, will share his excellent knowledge of marketing and communication of science and technology, in the food and drink sector. There is more about Barbara and Leighton in this month’s newsletter. In addition, we also pleased to confirm that regional stalwart Richard Storey, has kindly agreed to pilot a new regional role, which as well as developing our professional relationships, will also focus upon on our involvement in a range of initiatives, opportunities, and strategies of local government and other institutions.

We are also very excited about our regional events programme, which continue to offer excellent local opportunities for professional development and engagement.  Our commitment to having an events presence across the region, continues to develop traction. Our flagship events, such as our Tourism Conference in November remain popular and relevant and we are already finalising arrangements for other conferences for early 2017.   We very much hope to meet with you soon.

Brian Doidge, chair South West Regional Board