Adrian is a highly motivated and conscientious Chartered British Patent Attorney, European Patent Attorney, and IP Litigator (Patents) with more than 20 years of experience in sectors ranging from general engineering, automotive and aerospace, to medical devices, telecoms and software.

His life in Intellectual Property began in Tokyo where he worked for three years in a Japanese patent law firm. He dealt with technical developments in digital photography and compression algorithms from Pentax, as well as assisting with translation matters.

lan founded Zone Safety Training initially as a part-time venture while serving as a firefighter. His passion for public safety and education quickly transformed this small initiative into a thriving full-time enterprise.

With over 25 years marketing experience across both B2B and B2C, Alison has led growth and brand awareness campaigns in regional, national and international markets.

Alison cut her marketing teeth working for complex global organisations in London – Deloitte & Touche and SITA Airline services. She was promoted through the ranks, using her strong management and communication skills to co-ordinate work across numerous teams and countries. Now as Director of Marketing for Hazlewoods – accountancy and business advisers to regional and national clients – Alison is channelling her marketing skills to continue to grow the firm’s brand presence and its business development capacity.

Amy Leivers qualified as a Solicitor in 2003 and specialises in Commercial Property. She received a Commendation for the Legal Practice Course at the Oxford Institute of Legal Practice and a 2:1 Law Degree from the University of Hertfordshire. Amy moved to Gloucestershire in 2007 and joined the WSP Solicitors Property team in 2017, becoming Head of Commercial Property in 2019.

With over 30 years’ experience in commercial office design and build, Andy leads Abbey Business Interiors’ Design & Interior Fit-out division. Starting as a project designer, he advanced to Design Director before becoming Fit-out Director, where he now oversees projects from concept to completion.

Andrew has 24 years’ marketing experience, both B2B and B2C, specialising in digital marketing. He is responsible for building and driving the Gloucestershire College brand and marketing strategy. Andrew is passionate about people being enabled to make inspired educational choices that lead to future employability. Andrew is proud to work in a department that works hard to achieve this by promoting the positive outcomes created for students, parents, local communities, and employers by accessing the college’s courses and service.

Andy Barham, Manging Director Premiere Kitchens & Furniture joined the Markey Group in 2007. Initially delivering modular construction on the construction side of the business, he moved into Premiere Kitchens and Furniture, who at the time were 100% focused on social housing. Andy became Managing Director in 2014 and re-set the strategy and has since

Since joining Gloucestershire College as Chief Financial Officer and Vice Principal in 2014, Andy Bates has driven a number of high profile projects. These include introducing a business partner model to improve financial visibility throughout the organisation and Gloucestershire College’s Institute of Technology bid consequently securing £3 million of funding for outstanding new cyber and engineering facilities.

Andy is responsible for leading the financial strategy, employer training and all commercial activities across Gloucestershire College’s three campuses in Cheltenham, Gloucester and The Forest of Dean.

Andy Hawker – Head of Logistics for the Laithwaites business on the Gloucester Business Park and the C2S Leader representing the Laithwaites business. Gloucester is the centre of all UK Operations with over 400 staff and is open 7 day a week, including our award-winning Call Centre, Sales Team, Warehouse and most
mportantly our Wine Tasting Shop.

Ashley Wallace-Cook qualified as a solicitor in Scotland in 2001 before also qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales in 2003. He joined WSP’s Wills, Trusts and Probate team in Gloucester in 2013 on the merger with Whitemans Solicitors.
Ashley became a Director of WSP in 2017, and is Co-Head of the Wills, Trusts and Probate team.

Born and raised in South Africa, Barry Doak is the Partner and Sales Director at Monatrix, a position he has held since 2007.He has over twenty years’ experience in electronic security, with a specialism in Access Control and has worked with companies such as Sensormatic and ADT.

After 10 years of working in various finance-focused roles, Ben founded Jenkins & Co in 2023 with a view to remove the finance stresses that small business owners experience on a day-t-day basis through accurate bookkeeping, timely accounts and providing a personal service tailored to each clients’ needs.

Throughout his career to date, Ben has leveraged technology to minimise the possibilities of human error, while still manually spot checking to ensure that the technology is carrying out its duties accordingly. This is at the forefront of Jenkins & Co.’s work, having implemented Xero and other tools such as Autoentry, Apron and Pleo to help the automation of finance processes.

Beryl is an internationally known provider of management learning methodology and founder/author of the innovative 26 Steps Toolkits. Beryl brings a rare balance of academic and practical insights. She is adept at diagnosing, designing, and delivering director, senior leadership, and middle-management programmes, linking them to tangible projects with measurable returns. Most significantly, she has used some of the profits from her work to improve the lives of those less fortunate than most of us in society via her Be Your Own Boss programme

Beth Evans is the Head of the WSP Family Team and has over 20 years’ experience working in family law.
Beth has a wide ranging expertise. She works with her clients to address family related issues from cohabitation and pre-nuptial agreements, to divorce and dissolution proceedings. As well as protecting victims of domestic abuse and resolving financial matters and arrangements for children arising from relationship breakdown.
Beth qualified as a solicitor in 2007 after gaining a First in History from the University of Plymouth. She undertook the Legal Practice Course at the University of the West of England. A member of Resolution, and a Resolution Accredited Specialist, Beth is also a Collaborative Lawyer.

Not many Leaders can say they have taken a business from £9m to over £1Bn but Bob is one of these exceptional individuals who have innovated within their field of expertise and deserves the description of being an inspiring leader. With a flawless history of leadership success, Bob is one of the UK’s most acclaimed businessmen. He is most famously known for his pivotal role in the rise of Mears Group PLC and now Bob holds numerous executive and non-executive positions.

Camella Cephas, Managing Director of WSP Solicitors, has had a career spanning work in both public and private law children cases. An accredited member of the Law Society’s Children Panel, she is known for her extensive experience in children law, including complex international matters, non-accidental injuries, and allegations of abuse. Camella is also a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, mentoring aspiring lawyers, and supporting those from underrepresented communities. Her leadership at WSP is characterised by strategic decision-making, collaboration, and a commitment to fostering a culture of trust and excellence within the firm, ensuring clients always receive the highest levels of service.

Camilla Barnes of Better Business. Better World has been a qualified B Leader (or B Corp consultant) supporting businesses on their B Corp journey since 2017.

To date, she has supported 35 businesses on their B Corp journeys, 16 of whom are now B Corp certified, 6 are local to Gloucestershire.

She is co-chair of Gloucestershire B Local, which shares social & environmental best practice amongst businesses in Gloucestershire.

As General Manager at Thornbury Golf Club, Caroline Williams is passionate about creating a fantastic member and golf experience. With a strong background in hospitality and operations, she is committed to delivering exceptional service and fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Cathy Andrews joined Orchard Trust in 2014 as Finance Manager and was promoted to CEO in 2017. Cathy is passionate about improving the lives of people with disabilities and supporting people to reach their full potential, leading Registered Managers to provide person centred tailored support to each individual client. Cathy leads with passion, dedication and a strong vision. She successfully led the Trust through the difficult Covid 19 period by working closely with the senior management team, effective internal communications and a commitment to client and staff wellbeing.

As a former Finance Manager Cathy has an excellent head for figures and has led the Orchard Trust to commercial success, even during the current difficult financial period with Local Authority spending restraints and rising minimum wage payments. She has overseen the build up of reserves and empowered teams to secure alternative sources of funding to ensure the Trust is financially stable.

Cathy’s strong vision for the organisation ensured that our Learning Centre remained open after the loss of Local Authority funding by leading its transformation into a Day Service and Therapeutic Smallholding, providing valuable services to disabled adults in Gloucestershire. Cathy is continually seeking to improve services to ensure the Trust continues to meet the changing needs of clients.

Charles joined the company in April 2023 as a Senior Investment Director based in Cheltenham. He has specialised in bespoke investment management for over 15 years for a wide range of private clients, intermediaries (IFA’s, solicitors, accountants), charities, offshore bonds and family trusts across the UK.

The majority of his career was spent at Investec in Cheltenham, and prior to this some time in their Sheffield and Leeds offices.

Charlotte specialises in all aspects of family law, including divorce, finances, children matters, and cohabitation or nuptial agreements. She has particular expertise in complex financial cases involving businesses, pensions, and inherited assets. Known for her sensitive and practical approach, she regularly advises on wealth protection and supports clients through separation and child arrangements, including relocation cases.

Cheryl Luzet is the CEO of award-winning digital marketing agency, Wagada Digital which has offices in London, Cheltenham and St Albans. Wagada Digital offers digital marketing, employer branding, website development and HubSpot services. They make the complex simple and have digital specialists who develop strategy-focused, data led digital marketing campaigns.
They have a team of experts that work with in-house marketing teams to allow them to take their digital marketing to the next level. As part of their work, they support clients to ensure that their marketing also attracts and retains the best staff, helping them to develop engaging campaigns to develop their employer branding.

Chris specialises in large corporates and manufacturing businesses. He has presented and written articles about global business opportunities as well as the challenges facing the manufacturing sector. Other Partners in Cheltenham specialise in family businesses, property and construction, professional practices, non profits and private wealth.
Crowe UK is a national audit, tax and advisory firm with multi-disciplinary specialist teams providing all-round service to clients of all sizes. The firm is the UK member of Crowe Global, the 8th largest accounting network in the world.

Chris is a seasoned marketing professional with over 20 years’ experience working in-depth across the entire marketing landscape. He has significant experience in planning, audience-specific strategy, deploying multi-channel campaigns, CRM systems, digital (web, email, social, PPC, SEO) & MI reporting. His diverse B2B and B2C background spans various sectors, including retail, financial services, and renewable energy. As well as extensive agency experience, Chris has worked client-side in multinationals, start-ups and SME’s – working directly with business owners and C-suite to help them achieve real, measurable business growth.”

In over 30 years with global engineering business, Renishaw, Chris has held a variety of commercial roles, gaining experience in areas including global branding, international exhibitions, international marketing communications, sales administration and distribution logistics. He is also a Six Sigma Green Belt.

His current responsibilities include corporate communications, internal communications and investor relations.

Chris Tarren is the founder and managing director of Tarren Production, a company he set up since 2008. With over 30 years experience in the events industry, Chris has worked on over 2500 separate events with over 3000 live event days for over 70 different clients in the UK, and Europe providing event production and management support.
Chris has been instrumental in the start up of, several festivals and consumer events, and won several awards.
With a background in theatre, Chris has a wealth of expertise in technical production and event management and with his team, he supports clients big and small to mitigate challenges, eliminate hassle and offer solutions to realise their vision.

Clare’s work centres around community healthcare, including the installation of 78 defibrillators, (72 of which have been in the last 2 and a half years) through not-for-profit community campaign Public Hearts Defib Campaign CIC. As Founder Director of high-quality Ofqual regulated training providers specialising in first aid, Tidal Training Direct Ltd teaches the skills and knowledge to help someone when they need it most. Clare advocates community engagement, collaboration and the benefits of great people working together to do good for those around us.

I’ve spent the last 20 years specialising in finance recruitment, working with all kinds of businesses to find great people. After time as a director at an independent agency, in 2022 I took on a new challenge -launching my own recruitment business with my son, Harry . We’re a family-run agency with a personal, down-to-earth approach.

Charles Russell Speechlys is a law firm headquartered in London with offices in Cheltenham, Guildford, Europe, the Middle East and Hong Kong. We have an unusually broad range of skills and experience across the full spectrum of business and personal needs. This gives us a wider perspective, clear insight and a strongly commercial long-term view. We use this approach to secure the growth of our clients as they move confidently into the future. Clients find our more considered and personal approach a refreshing alternative to conventional business law firms.

My Responsibilities: Overall business development strategy and regulatory compliance. I am dedicated to ensuring that the organisation delivers the highest quality of care and support to our clients, and I work closely with the team to achieve this.

My Skills & Experience: As an experienced leader within the care industry, I continue to provide the compassionate, high-quality care that has helped establish Prosperity Care & Wellbeing as a leading provider of care and support services.

TTidal Training Ltd is a national leading provider in the delivery of Mental Health, Medical and Clinical, Health and Social Care and Learning Disability training courses to businesses in the UK through our team of highly qualified medical professionals. We support businesses, charities, limited companies and public bodies across the United Kingdom. Offering over 100 courses, we train in areas including Epilepsy, Autism, Acquired Brain Injury, Dementia & Alzheimer’s, Catheterisation, Syringe Driver, Venepuncture, Care of Medication, Wound Care Management, Self Harm Awareness, Rescue from Ligature.

“Cordell Ray is Chief Executive of the charity Caring for Communities & People (CCP). The charities vision is to prevent the causes and reduce the effects of homelessness, family breakdown and exclusion. Cordell is driven by a desire to create positive social impact, he passionately believes we can all add value by doing something extra, every day.

Craig, who began his career at Mira Showers as a design engineer over 20 years ago, has since occupied a number of roles, including Senior Project Manager: Mixer Showers and New Product Development Director.
His proudest career moment to date was being awarded the Chairman’s Award in 2009 – an

Craig is a founding director of Decibel Fire and Security and leads the company’s sales and client development strategy. As sales director, he is responsible for building long-term relationships with customers, understanding their security and life safety needs, and ensuring tailored solutions are delivered to the highest standards.

Dagmar Mackett – Global Development Director
Dagmar is DRPG’s global development director, addressing clients’ requirements for more internationally focused communications solutions. She has been with the business since 2009 when she joined as board director for film and video, building an award-winning film and animation team that provides creatively compelling solutions for a variety of clients in different industry sectors. Her focus now lies in developing the company’s profile abroad and supporting the global expansion of the group.

Dame Clare Marchant, DBE, is Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of University of Gloucestershire. She joined the University in September 2023, following six years as Chief Executive of UCAS. Clare is passionate about transforming individuals and our wider society through education. She is delighted to be working with so many brilliant colleagues, building the University’s reputation as a facilitator of lifechanging connections between employers, learners and the wider community.
Clare started her career within manufacturing, before moving to management consultancy with Deloitte. She then worked in central and local government, latterly as Chief Executive of Worcestershire County Council.

Dan Bullock is a director of QBD, a full-service digital marketing agency that helps growing businesses of all sizes to reach more, attract more and achieve more.

An experienced creative and business development professional, Dan has worked for QBD since it started 11½ years ago and worked for its predecessor for 2½ years prior to that.

Dan joined the firm as a junior programmer and has worked in a variety of roles across the business to develop his knowledge and understanding of the industry, including marketing manager and business development manager, becoming more engaged and involved with our clients and the delivery of their projects.

His main roles are working alongside his business partner, Paul Dyer, to look after the operations side of the business to make sure things run smoothly. He also liaises with clients and oversees the delivery of their projects and ongoing services to help them achieve their objectives.

Daniel Jenkins is the Commercial Director of award-winning digital marketing agency, Wagada Digital. In 2021, under Daniel’s leadership, Wagada Digital expanded its presence by opening a second office in Cheltenham. The agency provides a comprehensive range of digital marketing solutions for businesses, employer branding, website development and they are also HubSpot Platinum Partners.

A dynamic UK technology company at the forefront of innovation, crafting cutting-edge, secure solutions for a diverse range of clients, including government and commercial organisations. An engineering leader with extensive experience in the aerospace, automotive, and cybersecurity sectors, Daryl has transformed Amiosec’s engineering function since joining in 2022. He has strategically scaled the team from 25 to over 60 engineers, achieving a retention rate of over 90% while driving high-quality, secure engineering solutions through innovative methodologies and data-driven decision-making. Daryl’s leadership is rooted in mentorship, fostering talent through structured career development initiatives, such as a formalised graduate scheme and a new apprenticeship programme.

David has twenty-five years of experience in the Telecom’s Industry. With a clear passion for providing customer service and results that are not only best of breed but cost effective and easy to use for all stakeholders. David has been at the forefront of delivering fantastic Telecom’s solutions to companies across the Southwest and the United Kingdom.

Many of the Region’s companies have trusted David to provide Telecom services which have been fundamental to delivery business essential communication needs. An independent Telecom expert, David has advised and delivered unified communications, contact centres, collaboration, mobile and IT solutions to medium and large enterprise companies.

Dave, Managing Director of Abbey Business Interiors has paved his way in the industry over the last 29 years, delivering large scale projects and building long-term industry knowledge and relationships. Abbey’s office may be based in Cheltenham but the team

Dave’s grandfather, Ronald Collette, was the person who inspired him most. He instilled a passion in Dave to be curious and have a thirst for learning. Ronald was a great mentor and role model. His legacy is why Dave focuses on helping people become more self-aware, to overcome obstacles, acquire knowledge and

As Managing Director of Blue Sky Signs, Dave Oldfield leads one of Gloucestershire’s most trusted signage companies, bringing over 30 years of experience in visual branding. Based in Gloucester, the team designs and manufactures in-house, delivering high-impact signage, vehicle livery, exhibition graphics, print, and promotional products for corporates, national brands, local authorities, and SMEs.

David Butler is the Office Lead Partner at the Bishop Fleming Cheltenham office.
Bishop Fleming is an award-winning, dynamic UK accountancy firm delivering expert audit, accountancy, tax, and advisory services to SMEs, owner managed businesses, large FTSE businesses, public sector organisations, charities, schools or private individuals. Bishop Fleming is a Top 30 firm of accountants with nine offices from Birmingham to Truro.

Evans Jones is an independent firm of Chartered Surveyors and Planning Consultants, advising on all aspects of the acquisition, development and management of Commercial Property across the UK. Founded in 1972 and based in Cheltenham, the team work across the UK and have regional operations in London and Reading.

Doug’s main specialism (in addition to undertaking all general areas of commercial property) is the acquisition, management and disposal of large investment properties. Over the past two years alone, Doug has facilitated projects across London, the Thames Valley and as far north as Manchester, Leeds and Harrogate, as well as Gloucestershire.

Ed Mawle joined the company in 2023 as a Senior Investment Director based in the Cheltenham office – he specialises in looking after High Net Worth individuals. Prior to this, for over 25 years Ed managed investment portfolios at Brewin Dolphin and more latterly at Investec. Ed is a Chartered Wealth Manager and Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment.

Viper Innovations Ltd, was founded in 2007 by co-owners and Directors Max Nodder and Neil Douglas. Today Viper is a high-tech, innovative & disruptive SaaS model business serving the subsea oil & gas, rail and other industrial sectors with proprietary, award winning technology and products. As part of planning for that growth the founders decided to appoint a new managing director and Edward Davies joined the business as MD in June 2020. Edward brings 20 years of experience working with fast growing businesses as a consultant, non-executive and executive director.

For over 15 years, I have been operating my own businesses. During this time, I have been privileged to work with international brands and events across Europe and the USA, including Team USA, the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games, Nike, British Swimming, British triathlon, Ironman, Challenge Triathlon and the European Outdoor Film Tour. My clients have praised me for bringing a warm and enthusiastic personality to the team, paying close attention to the brief, and delivering on time. My goal is not only to meet but also to exceed expectations.

25 years ago I felt that the recruitment industry required a fresh, new and exciting approach, one that was customer led and focussed on a quality experience for both candidates and clients.
My mission was to create a company that specialised in supplying exceptional candidates that go above and beyond in their passion to succeed in their chosen field. A company that makes its candidates and clients feel welcomed and provides an unparalleled recruitment experience.
What started as a logo and a set of core values of how a recruitment business should operate, has become a well-known and highly recognised and respected business representing many of the South West’s most prolific businesses.

Dean Close is a flourishing co educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 18 years, offering outstanding teaching and extensive opportunities, particularly in creative and performing arts and sport; the school has a national reputation for hockey. Dean Close has a strong Christian ethos and pastoral care, guidance and individual support is of paramount importance there.

Eve lived in Malawi, Central Africa, and was educated there at Saint Andrews International High School until 1989, when she accepted a scholarship to the Cheltenham Ladies’ College for Sixth Form. After she left school, she studied Engineering Science at Pembroke College, Cambridge. Having worked in industry for a little while, Eve then entered the teaching profession, beginning at Radley College in Oxford, later moving to Epsom College in Surrey where she taught Economics.

Ewan Abbott is the Director, Global Operations for AMAG Technology, where he oversees manufacturing, supply chain, quality assurance, logistics and customer service and is also responsible for our facilities in the UK and USA. Having spent almost 40 years in engineering and manufacturing, his career has included some of the world’s best-known companies, such as Rolls-Royce Aerospace and Cosworth Engineering. He has led and developed teams in Sales, Marketing, Engineering, Program Management and Operations, and directed the European operations of a large US organization before joining the leadership team of a start-up high-tech business specializing in Lidar to measure wind in the renewables sector.

Francesca is the Chief Executive of Cheltenham Business Improvement District, a non-profit organisation, and an Executive Board Member of the Chamber of Commerce. She is passionate about placemaking and is committed to working hand in hand with local businesses, communities, and stakeholders to ensure Cheltenham remains a top choice for residents, visitors, and investors. Her journey has been driven by a dedication to driving positive change, having previously led several highly successful projects, including one that influenced national policy.
Francesca’s background is in the events and project management sector. She is a qualified PRINCE2 Practitioner and holds a Level 5 ILM certification.

Bishop Fleming is an award-winning, dynamic UK accountancy firm delivering expert audit, accountancy, tax, and advisory services to SMEs, owner managed businesses, large FTSE businesses, public sector organisations, charities, schools or private individuals. Bishop Fleming is a Top 30 firm of accountants with nine offices from Birmingham to Truro.
Francis is a Chartered Tax Adviser with over 25 years’ experience and specialism in private client taxation. He manages a diverse portfolio of clients including many high-net-worth individuals and trusts.

Frederick is a qualified and experienced Chartered British Patent Attorney, European Patent Attorney, and Higher Courts Litigator who enjoys working in a diverse range of technical areas.

His patent practice spans from artificial intelligence and machine learning, through electronics and signal processing, to mechanical inventions including various types of braking systems and products for the building trades and DIY.

As well as patent prosecution, Frederick handles contentious IP matters including patent, trade mark, design and copyright infringement. He has a strong track record of settling disputes on favourable terms for his clients, while keeping costs proportionate to ensure value. Frederick holds a Higher Courts Litigation Certificate and as such is qualified to conduct intellectual property litigation, including appeals, in all the courts of England and Wales.

With over 20 years in wealth management and financial markets, Gareth is an Investment Director at Rathbones, where he focuses on creating investment strategies that help individuals and families achieve their long-term goals. He’s passionate about building strong, personal relationships with his clients, ensuring their financial plans reflect what truly matters to them.

Gareth takes a hands-on, proactive approach to investing. He works with clients to minimise risk while aiming for steady, long-term growth. Whether it’s planning for retirement, securing a family legacy, or building wealth for the future, Gareth customises strategies to help give clients peace of mind and financial security.

Gary looks after all things sustainable across the Green Britain Group – including Ecotricity, Forest Green Rovers (the greenest football club in the world according to FIFA), Britwind, EcoTalk, Skydiamond and Devil’s Kitchen.

Ecotricity is a British energy company based in Stroud, Gloucestershire. Known as a global lead on sustainability. Founder Dale Vince and the team are
passionate about saving the planet and doing everything they can to support this goal. From Forest Green Rovers FC being the only green football club in the world and producing green fuel to innovating technology to produce environmentally produced diamonds.

Bishop Fleming is an award-winning, dynamic UK accountancy firm delivering expert audit, accountancy, tax, and advisory services to SMEs, owner managed businesses, large FTSE businesses, public sector organisations, charities, schools or private individuals. Bishop Fleming is a Top 30 firm of accountants with nine offices from Birmingham to Truro.
Graham Charlton is a Tax Partner and head of Private Equity Tax for Bishop Fleming Chartered Accountants. He has c.20 years of experience advising numerous Private Equity businesses throughout their lifecycle, whether this be preparing and making themselves ready for sale, through the sale process and into the next lifecycle.

Heather Westgate has been a marketer for over 30 years.

In 2014 recognising the changing needs of clients, she created We Are Marketing, a dynamic project-based marketing hub which delivers effective marketing strategy, planning and marketing support and mentoring. From creative concepts right through to collateral execution for large, mid-sized corporates and SMEs.

Born in Hong Kong, Helena has lived and worked in Tanzania, Kenya and the UK and brings that cultural diversity and experience to her role as the Head of Wycliffe Prep. Helena embodies the pioneering spirit that Wycliffe Prep strives to inspire every individual to become global citizens (from Nursery through to Year 8).

Huw has a military background and served in the British army for 20 years.
Up until 2 years ago, Huw was the founding CEO of MPCT, a very specialist award winning training college with 2000 students and 200 staff across 35 locations. It was back in 2015 when Huw and his wife Mel realised that they couldn’t find a uniform provider that was able to supply their staff and students with high quality uniform efficiently.
From this problem, they formed Black Mountain in the basement of their house. Its mission was simple: to deliver on a promise and every individual mattered.

Hewer is a trusted provider of mechanical, heating, electrical, and renewable energy services across commercial and domestic sectors. From heating and electrical installations to responsive maintenance and energy-saving solutions, Hewer delivers high-quality, customer-focused work. Over 27 years, Ian Haughton has grown from M&E Supervisor to Managing Director, helping to shape the company’s growth and culture.

Jack has dedicated over 15 years to the health insurance industry, culminating in the founding of Switch Health Limited in 2015. Starting with just £750 and operating from his garage, Jack’s vision was to revolutionise the health insurance landscape. With determination and a commitment to excellence, he utilised data-driven strategies to grow the business and better serve his clients. Fast forward to 2024, Switch Health has transformed into a thriving enterprise with a dedicated team of 25 professionals. Now headquartered in a beautiful office on the Promenade in Cheltenham, the company continues to prioritise customer satisfaction and innovative solutions.

I have worked in the care sector for several years and have also managed several services. I grew up with both parents being deaf and had a stint where I was the service user. I decided to use my knowledge and experience to give back and help hear the voices of those that may rely on others for a care service. I have my Level 5 Leadership and Management in Adult Care and am currently training to be a BSL Interpreter too. I am a qualified H&SC Trainer, as well as a senior Team Teach Trainer.

Jacqueline advises and gives guidance to the Board and senior management on legal and governance issues and leads the legal function. Prior to joining Renishaw in 2019, she spent 12 years with Vodafone in a variety of roles within the group legal and corporate secretariat team,

James is a seasoned leader in the creative arena, with over 35 years’ experience. He heads an integrated, in-house team of branding, production, and digital experts, all driven by a shared passion for excellence and innovation.

James is Randall & Payne’s lead in corporate tax and specialist in R&D tax credits. He also specialises in corporate restructuring, employee share incentives and investment tax reliefs. He ensures a high standard of corporation tax compliance is maintained for clients. He also volunteers for the Chartered Institute of Taxation on one of their technical committees with direct links to policy makers in the government, as well as chairing the local members’ branch.

James has been Head of Brand at Laithwaites since August 2021 and before that he spent 11 years at Waitrose & Partners as Head of Brand Marketing.
Ever since Tony Laithwaite went to Bordeaux in the 60s, family and friendship has been central to their journey. For over 50 years they have been delivering wine the right way – from people who love making it to people who love drinking it. they never overcomplicate things.

Bishop Fleming is an award-winning, dynamic UK accountancy firm delivering expert audit, accountancy, tax, and advisory services to SMEs, owner managed businesses, large FTSE businesses, public sector organisations, charities, schools or private individuals. Bishop Fleming is a Top 30 firm of accountants with nine offices from Birmingham to Truro.
Jamie has extensive audit experience working with both SMEs and on some of the biggest corporate audits in the UK. His passion for creating long-lasting working relationships with businesses ensures he provides a high quality, personal service.

Jane Moyle was a stay at home wife and mother of four young children in Worcestershire, when she suddenly discovered in her thirties that she had entrepreneurial instincts which led her to found the company, ‘Moyles Masterkey’, with the USP of ‘Opening Closed Doors’. She persuaded the owners of lovely manor houses in the Heart of England to allow her and later her guides, to bring groups of conference wives to entertain them to coffee, lunch and tea, as the guests of the owners.
The company rapidly grew and after founding another company for her son, Moyles Motivational Marketing, it all rapidly grew into a multi-million-pound enterprise. Jane was awarded the contract for looking after the wives of the International Olympic Committee when they visited Birmingham in 1991.

Janis is the Managing Director of TasteTech Ltd, a niche manufacturing company based in South Bristol, specialising in the design and manufacture of controlled release food flavourings and functional ingredients.
She founded the company with her husband in 1992 when they built their first pilot plant in their garage at home. 27 years later TasteTech has 65 employees and annually ships product to food manufacturers in over 40 countries globally.

Jason French has 18 years of leadership experience as an Army Officer having led organisations of 8 people, to 120 people in different contexts and conditions. Commercially he has operated at board level as well as setting up and running three businesses of his own. He has been a business advisor and coach for seven years specialising in leadership, value building and operations.

Jemma specialises in Family Law. She deals with all of the financial issues that arise on separation or divorce and works hand in hand with clients to achieve the best outcome for them. Her particular area of interest is dealing with the future arrangements for any children of the relationship.
She understands how stressful it is to go through a separation or divorce and aims to help her clients to make well informed decisions so they can take control of their future and provide stability for themselves and for their children.

Jenna Marks is the Commercial Director at Tarren Production, with over 15 years of sales and marketing experience in the retail and charity sectors. Jenna has a proven record in strategy, commercial sales, customer engagement and retention and project and team management. Jenna has managed account portfolios from concept to delivery, event management, marketing campaigns,

Since joining in 2024, her role at Tarren Production, Jenna is responsible for the day to day operations and commercial management of the business, as well as looking after the growing team.

McLoughlin Planning is an independent, results focused consultancy and has an expansive experience of many areas of planning consultancy.
Providing the best advice to anyone who asks us is at the heart of what we do. Our approach is always guided by our three principles of Integrity, Innovation and Intelligence.

Jim Devine joined Spirax Group in 2016 and has been an instrumental part of the group executive team that has accelerated the organic and acquisitive growth of the group in recent years. He has a wealth of experience across a number of industries spanning manufacturing, financial services, resources and engineering; having previously worked for Chemring, British Gas, Centrica, Ford.

Howden is a top independent Chartered Insurance Broker trusted by over 100,000 clients for business insurance, risk management, employee benefits and bespoke personal insurance. In a faceless world of indifferent service, our vision is to put CARE back into the broking business. I am a Chartered Insurance Broker with 30 years’ experience at major composite insurance companies and high-performing insurance brokers, advising clients within many sectors about a wide range of commercial insurance products & introducing complementary financial services e.g. risk management, high net worth personal insurance for discerning individuals, employee benefits and financial planning.

Jody Ross is the Vice President, Sales at AMAG Technology. She leads revenue growth of global customers and major accounts, working closely with them to ensure initial and long-term success. Jody has been at AMAG since 2006. During her tenure, she has held the positions of Vice President of Strategic Accounts and the Director of Business Development along with leading several initiatives to increase AMAG’s revenue and global footprint.

John Workman is a partner in the Corporate team at BPE Solicitors. He advises on corporate transactions and is the firm’s Senior Partner having lead a management buyout of the firm in 2005. John has over 35 years’ experience and is well-known for his specialist corporate knowledge.
In his role as Senior Partner, John is part of the senior management team at BPE, playing a key role in the firm’s strategy as well as being at the forefront of client facing activities and managing key client relationships. In addition to his legal practice, John is an Honorary Consul to Estonia and a director of the Everyman Theatre.

Jonathan is Finance & HR Director at the Robert Hitchins Group which has extensive land interests and commercial property holdings throughout Gloucestershire and the South West. Robert Hitchins are active supporters of the local community and are major contributors to the Gloucestershire Community Foundation, of which Jonathan is a trustee, who support a wide range of charities in the county.
After graduating from Cambridge University, Jonathan gained his accountancy qualification at Ernst & Young in London and after a couple of roles in media and luxury jewellery found himself at Grosvenor Estates where he developed his interest in property.

Jon Rathbone is head of the Corporate and Commercial team at Hughes Paddison. Jon joined in 2017 with over 15 years’ previous experience working in private practice for national firms as well as acting as Group Legal Counsel for Mulberry Group PLC. Jon also designed the Pourty Easy-To-Pour Potty, one of the bestselling potties in the UK, establishing a successful business selling children’s products to the likes of John Lewis and Amazon.

Jon draws from his experience setting up his own business and working in house for Mulberry to take a pragmatic approach and help clients to address their risks and optimise their opportunities.

Joseph Mullis is Director and Practice Manager at WSP Solicitors. Joseph has worked in the legal services sector as a Practice Manager since he graduated from university. He is keen to ensure all clients receive an excellent service, which he feels is supported by forward looking people management.

I oversee the finance department and strategic development of the business. I work closely with the board of Directors and senior management team to develop the organisation’s systems and processes, ensuring that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Using my years of experience in both the public and private sectors, I have developed a wide range of skills across various industries, including large-scale sport and event catering, as well as project delivery in the UK Civil Service. My experience in project delivery and process improvement has supported the growth and success of Prosperity Care & Wellbeing and helped to establish the organisation as a leader in the care industry.

Judi Bonham qualified as a Solicitor in 1996. She has over 20 years’ experience specialising in all aspects of Family Law. Judi is a member of the WSP Family Law team as well as being the Managing Director of WSP Solicitors.

Albright IP is a full service patent and trade mark attorney firm. Our first-class attorneys have exceptional expertise and will represent you before the UK Intellectual Property Office (UK IPO), the European Patent Office (EPO) and internationally before the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). We can also obtain patent rights for you in almost any country throughout the world.

Julia House is a Chartered Trade Mark Attorney within Albright IP; a professional firm of British and European Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys, based in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. Julia is an experienced attorney described in the 2022 edition of the WTR 1000 (The World’s Leading Trademark Professionals) directory, as being “Practical and focused, providing top-notch, outstanding trademark prosecution work. She is a pleasure to work with.”

Julie Tegg is the Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Training at Gloucestershire College. Awarded ‘Gloucestershire’s Apprenticeship Training Provider of the Year 2020’, Julie steers GC’s professional training provision with her senior leadership experience and exceptional knowledge of apprenticeships to provide an outstanding service for employers and apprentices alike.

Having joined GC in 2012 and is passionate about apprenticeships and their positive impact on both the individual and businesses as a whole. Julie and the team at GC are on a mission to change the stereotypes of apprentices and encourage everyone to utilise the scheme to develop professionally throughout their career.

Justin is a defence, intelligence and security expert with 20 years’ service with the British military. CEO, global strategic advisory firm
Author, “Corporate Security Intelligence and Strategic Decision-Making” Board Member and 2021-2 President, Association of International Risk Intelligence Professionals He continues to serve in the UK Reserves . He is CEO of Sibylline Ltd, the intelligence consultancy he founded in 2010, and also serves as Head of Intelligence for The ANVIL Group. Specialties include: Al-Qaeda and the global jihadist movement; global terrorism; Middle East, North Africa and South Asian affairs; defence and security issues; social media; transport and maritime security; intelligence and crisis management.

Kathryn advises on a wide range of transactions, including AIM IPOs, takeovers, placings, company restructures, private equity investments, mergers and acquisitions. Kathryn works with private and public companies,

Katie Oliver is a Director and Trade Mark Attorney at Albright IP. Katie qualified as a Trade Mark Attorney in 2002 and joined Albright IP in 2009. Today she heads up Albright IP’s specialist Trade Mark team which has been repeatedly ranked by the Chartered Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys (CITMA) in their annual top-filer rankings.

Commercially focused, Katie has extensive experience in all aspects of Trade Mark law, including Trade Mark selection and searching, Trade Mark portfolio management, filing and prosecution of Trade Mark applications around the world, initiating and defending Trade Mark opposition, invalidation and revocation proceedings, and Trade Mark defence and enforcement.

Kevin is the founder of GEL and our Managing Director. He is responsible for creating the GEL offer and as such conducts needs analysis and training design with employers and learners. Kevin is an active practitioner and delivers on several of our programmes, including day courses, short qualifications and apprenticeships, specialising mostly in leadership, management and quality management (Lean Six Sigma). Kevin is also our Lead Assessor and DiSC Trainer, plus he delivers one-to-one coaching support for managers.

I was born and bred in Gloucester and have strong values for the county and the business that thrives in it. My background saw me serving in the armed forces for a lengthy period from the age of seventeen and upon leaving I entered, like most soldiers do, in the security sector. For the last 18 years I have been involved with vehicle GPS products, working for some of the country’s leading telematics providers however for the last 10 years this has been in my own business as the

Kirstie qualified as a Solicitor in 2004. She joined WSP’s Private Client Department in Dursley in 2016 and became Head of the department in 2021.
Outside of the firm Kirstie is an ultra-runner. To celebrate her 40th Birthday in 2018 she ran two double marathons and an ultra-marathon within five weeks.

Kyle Gordon is the Executive Vice President, Global Sales, Marketing and Commercial Excellence and leads all commercial functions of the AMAG Technology organisation. Kyle began his career at STANLEY Security and worked his way up through regional and national sales roles. Starting in 2013, he held two leadership sales roles focused on education. n 2016, he became the VP of Business Development, Commercial Strategy for Stanley’s parent company, Stanley Black and Decker, Inc.

As a Partner in the Corporate team at BPE Solicitors, Laurence acts as trusted advisor to business owners and leadership teams, ranging from local SMEs to internationally recognised brands, offering strategic legal advice and commercial insight.

Lee joined Fleet Electric in May 2023, following two years at Kia. He is dedicated to assisting businesses and individuals in the sustainable adoption of electric cars and vans through leasing options, company vehicles, and salary sacrifice schemes.
With a successful background in sales, Lee brings extensive knowledge and experience to the team.
He plays an essential role in the success of Lease Electric, providing significant support to both new and existing customers as they adopt electric vehicles through Lease Electric’s Climate Positive Leasing Scheme.
Lee is particularly passionate about Salary Sacrifice, which offers an affordable pathway to electric vehicles (EVs). This strategy makes EVs more accessible to individuals who once viewed them as too expensive. He is dedicated to assisting businesses in helping their employees enjoy the benefits of EVs.

Lee joined Elmrep in 1993 as a YTS Trainee and then bought the business in 2011. He has taken the business from strength to strength including pioneering the way to manage businesses office printing and scanning needs. A unique one-way monitoring system that allows them to know there is a problem before they do!

Liam Pearce founded Pearce IT & Telecoms in 2000, following a successful career working with large corporations. With a vision to bring enterprise-level IT solutions to small and medium-sized businesses, Liam set out to create a company that delivers smart, secure, and scalable technology services. Drawing on his extensive experience, Liam built Pearce IT with a clear mission: to help businesses grow and operate more efficiently through the power of IT systems, connectivity, and cybersecurity. His passion for innovation and service excellence remains at the heart of the company’s success. Over the past two decades, Pearce IT has grown year-on-year, becoming a trusted name in IT and telecoms across Gloucestershire and beyond. The company’s reputation is built on reliability, responsiveness, and a customer-first approach.

Lord Bichard, who has been associated with the University of Gloucestershire for many years, succeeds Baroness Rennie Fritchie, who stood down as Chancellor at the end of 2021 after serving the University with distinction for more than a decade. Lord Bichard’s inauguration ceremony which took place in October 2022 was attended by around 100 invited guests at the Gloucestershire Business School at the University’s Oxstalls Campus in Gloucester. Lord Bichard has had a very distinguished career, largely in the public services. He was made a member of the House of Lords in 2010 as a cross-bench peer.

Lucy McCallum is an Associate Solicitor and Head of WSP Solicitors Residential Property Team.
Lucy qualified in 2013 and joined WSP Solicitors in 2016. She gained a Law Degree from Bristol University and worked as a paralegal for a number of large national firms. She has been working in conveyancing since she qualified and specialises in a wide range of residential conveyancing services. These include sales and purchases, new build properties, shared ownership and Help to Buy, re-mortgages and equity release mortgages, transfers of equity and probate sales. She has helped thousands of people move home, sell and purchase investment properties, transfer ownership and remortgage their properties.
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Lynette is driven by a passion to enable people to realise their potential, from the young adults supported by National Star to the 1,300 employees who work for the charity. Since becoming CEO of National Star in 2022, Lynette has championed employee development, wellbeing support and a wide range of incentives to ensure the charity is an employer of choice. This has resulted in a marked improvement in the retention rate for the £46m turnover organisation. Lynette has worked in Education, Health and Social Care for 27 years, joining National Star in 2001.

Mark Goucher has been Chief Executive of the Everyman Theatre since 2017. A West End producer with over 30 years experience, Mark has used his connections in the industry to raise the profile of the Everyman nationally and increase the range of high quality work, working with producers and companies who would not otherwise have come to Cheltenham.

Creed Foodservice has grown to become one of the UK’s leading independently owned foodservice wholesalers specialising in a comprehensive range of multi-temperature products and services to caterers throughout the country, providing great service through great people.

Matthew Burgess was appointed as Principal and Chief Executive of Gloucestershire College in 2013 having joined in 1998 as Vice Principal for Finance. Supported by the Board of Governors, Matthew proudly leads all aspects of Gloucestershire College including its strategic direction, educational character, student outcomes and financial position.

An advocate for how FE supports local businesses, passionate about helping young people to achieve their potential and an ambassador for apprenticeships, Matthew ensures GC provides choices, pathways and support for all to help the local community thrive.

Maurizio Preziosa, took over as Managing Director Steam Thermal Solutions on 1st January 2021 and became a member of the Group Executive Committee. Maurizio is based at the Group Headquarters in Cheltenham, UK.

Impulse Capital are Commercial Finance Brokers who specialise in Property & Development funding. We have over 30 years experience in the UK Financial Services sector and Property. We provide everything from the smallest of ‘Soft-Refurbishments’ right up to ‘Ground up’ Development funding. So whether you are a Property Developer or an Investor with a portfolio, we can certainly help you with your future projects.

I have over 30 years’ experience in both the property business and the service industry, owning and operating wedding venues, hotels and care homes. My first property purchase, in 1985, was a one bedroom flat and since then I have undertaken a wide variety of property projects in varying locations – from Gloucestershire to Suffolk, various London and Essex boroughs, and Moscow, Russia.

When I passed my driving test two days after turning 17, I became one of the youngest people ever to race at Brands Hatch! My hobbies, when I have time, include collecting classic cars and playing golf.

Michaela is our operations director and has over 15-years working with GEL. She manages our training schedule, client liaison with HR & L&D managers, and supports learners on management pathways. She manages our events team, trainers and special events always keeping an eye on emerging trends and L&D research to inform our stakeholders of key skills development areas.
Michaela manages our open programme of courses, develops in-house bespoke training courses with our trainers and clients and spreads the word about the benefits of apprenticeship funding

Pioneering the idea of the portfolio career, Managing Director of White Light Hosting Mitch Bracey is compiling all of his skill-set for success. White Light Hosting is your go-to hub for hosting – it’s what makes your website visible on the internet. Without hosting you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place. They provide fast and reliable plans that is tailored to you. White Light Hosting also provide endless arrays of domain names to give your business a home online. This is one of your best opportunities to get your brand out there with a website domain name to remember.

‘Moreton is the owner/Managing Director of the various businesses that comprise the Cullimore Group of Companies he is the third generation of the family to lead the group, no doubt people will recognise the green lorries driving around the region. The family have a historical origin in the Stroud district both living and business headquarters. Moreton also fronts Cullimore Farms and has branded one of their products ‘Wagyu Chief’ a Gloucestershire born and raised grass fed Wagyu Beef. Nationally Moreton is also the National Chairman of the Road Haulage Association (RHA).

Nathan established McLoughlin Planning in 2009 focusing on a simple objective: to get results for clients by providing high quality planning consultancy.
Based in Cheltenham, but working nationwide and drawing on over 25 years of experience, Nathan has been pivotal in winning planning permission for a wide range of developments, from strategic promotions and commercial premises to private developments and rural projects.
His reputation for integrity, ability to think innovatively and the respect he has gained has developed a growing business, thriving on personal recommendations from clients and industry colleagues.

Founded by Neil Douglas and Max Nodder in 2007, Viper Innovations is a Portishead based company that designs and supplies electrical cable integrity monitoring equipment and analytics software for the subsea and rail industries. A high level of investment in R&D has resulted in an average annual growth rate of 25%. Export sales account for over 50% of revenues. Neil is a direct descendant of Sir Isaac Newton’s grandfather and so science and engineering runs in the family.

Hi, I’m Nick and for over a decade now I’ve enjoyed helping some of the biggest names in industry achieve their goals whilst helping small and medium enterprises grow to their full potential. At Brace Creative we started on a local level and have never forgotten our roots, but we’ve always aimed high.

Nick Latimer – is the Tax Partner within the Crowe Cheltenham office and advise business owners, entrepreneurs and families on appropriate ways to structure their affairs to make the most of tax allowances and reliefs.

With over 25 years of experience, Nick Marlow has dedicated his career to helping individuals unlock their potential and navigate a path toward personal and professional success. His work focuses on one-to-one coaching, guiding people to understand and appreciate their own strengths, build genuine self-confidence, and develop the mindset needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Nick’s unique coaching approach is grounded in empathy, insight, and practical experience, shaped through working with individuals across a broad range of sectors — from global brands like British Gas, Burberry, and Harley Davidson to public services including the NHS, BBC, and local government.

System 15 is an agile and innovative IT solutions company, proudly based in Gloucestershire. Since 2015 the company has been providing services and support to help organisations solve their IT problems.
Founded by director Nick Rowntree, Gloucester-based System 15 have quickly expanded to become a leading provider of managed IT services, cyber security consultancy and IT projects. The company has built a reputation upon honesty and trust, taking the time to consult carefully with clients to fully understand their organisation’s requirements before advising on cost-effective IT solutions.

Nigel Church, Managing Director at First Solution leads an experienced team of technology professionals and manages a range of high value technology partnerships. Nigel launched his career at Xerox, moved to US software giant PTC and then internet business Global Cloud Exchange. Having held senior roles across a broad range of technology businesses he has established a business that is focused on delivering the right outcomes from technology for its customers.

Nikki jointly heads up the Accounting Services team with Shaun Pegler, and has an impressive and diverse portfolio of clients, with a focus on agriculture and hospitality. Day-to-day, she’s always on the other end of the line when clients need advice and guidance and is proud to be a partner in a highly regarded local firm with a long-standing history.

With an eye for a promising opportunity, Ollie leads Randall & Payne’s Corporate Finance team, securing futures for ambitious businesses and their owners. He handles company acquisitions and sales, financing, due diligence and valuations.

Paul Dyer is the Managing Director of QBD, a full-service digital marketing agency that helps growing businesses of all sizes to reach more, attract more and achieve more.
Paul is an experienced entrepreneur with a strong track record of starting and building successful online businesses. He’s a highly skilled digital marketing and SEO professional, with vast expertise in sales & marketing strategy, sales management and strategic partnerships.

He also specialises in helping other businesses identify how they can grow through having a great website and a digital presence that ranks well and generates new business.

Paul Gillings is the CEO and co-founder of Monatrix Limited. He founded the company back in 2003 and has been instrumental in its success, driving it to become a leading electronic security specialist and integrator. Over the years, Paul has developed an unrivalled understanding of electronic security, which he uses to provide businesses with the perfect security solution for their needs – whether it’s a legacy system or a cloud-based security solution.

Paul heads up Business Development at DRPG – a completely integrated creative communications agency. With 30 years experience in developing and growing mutually successful client relationships with some of the biggest and brightest brands in the UK and beyond, Paul has access to an incredibly creative, innovative and results focussed team at DRPG.

Concentrating on bespoke solutions that centre on objectives and results rather than the media or channel of delivery enables Paul and the 370+ strong team to deliver outstanding and measurable results for their hugely impressive client portfolio.

Peter is a Chartered Wealth Manager and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment. His diverse background extends to his qualification as a commercial surveyor and his active involvement on various Boards, as well as acting as Trustee for the Baron Davenport’s Charity in Birmingham.

Peter Mardon is Commercial Director at WSP Solicitors and manages the Company Commercial Team. He has over 25 years of experience advising businesses from initial concept, through start-up, growth, consolidation and exit.

I started Tewkesbury Printing Company in 1985, expanded to 3 factories within 5 years and gained national contracts for printing, from workshop manuals, company stationery and colour brochures to direct mail. Due to
high growth we built our factory in Tewkesbury allowing us to operate double shifts and weekend schedules. We now have 43 staff, run a 24-hour

Bishop Fleming is an award-winning, dynamic UK accountancy firm delivering expert audit, accountancy, tax, and advisory services to SMEs, owner managed businesses, large FTSE businesses, public sector organisations, charities, schools or private individuals. Bishop Fleming is a Top 30 firm of accountants with nine offices from Birmingham to Truro.
Phil Redgate is a Corporate Finance Director, based in the Cheltenham office.
Bishop Fleming’s Corporate Finance advisory team can help you keep up with changes in your business. Whether that’s finalising a deal, securing funds for growth or expansion, or preparing for entry into the capital markets, we have the depth of experience to provide a range of specialist services to suit your needs.

Dr Polly Pick is Principal Lecturer Business (Marketing, Personal and Professional Development Leadership and Management) at Hartpury University and College.

She is passionate about higher education and its ability to transform lives, believing that vocational education should be useful, applied and focused on developing excellent practitioners. Academically Polly’s discipline is Leadership and Management and Marketing.

Under Professor Andy Collop’s visionary leadership, Hartpury continues its remarkable growth and success. Its economic impact is estimated at approximately £296 million, more than triple the estimated value made in 2018, undoubtedly shaping the future of education and contributing to the growth of Gloucestershire’s economy.

Having joined Hazlewoods in 2018, I have worked on a large number of private company, family business and corporate audits, and various inbound subsidiaries, and love the challenge and variety that working here provides. I have a particular interest in companies in the food and drink industry and take the lead on working in this industry at Hazlewoods.

Ria Heap is the Fundraising Lead at The Chamwell Centre Charity. Ria has worked in the charity sector since 2015, specialising in facilities, services, awareness and inclusivity for children and adults with disabilities and additional needs. This is very personal to her and she is incredibly passionate about them.

Curiosity is why Rich is here today as a Director of Zentano. People are often surprised to hear about Rich’s move to coaching given his successful career in IT leadership. But, after an offer to be someone’s “coaching guinea pig” Rich decided IT wasn’t his passion and he made the leap to coaching.

As Managing Director of Colour Connection, I have been leading the team through our sustainability vision. The direction of the business has changed significantly over three decades, and the landscape of the industry has evolved, with the heavy environmental focus which is impacting organisations and individuals far and wide.

Colour Connections purpose is to transform the existing story of throw away printed products from one of single use and single purpose print, to a brand-new story of offering a consultative approach to sustainable, reusable and environmentally friendly print products and services.

After spending eight years with the car manufacturer, Mitsubishi Motors, where Richard held multiple roles across different departments before concluding his journey as Head of Product Planning and UK/EU Vehicle Homologation, he decided to pursue his vision of establishing a climate-positive leasing service when Mitsubishi exited the UK market.

In 2020, Richard established Fleet Electric, leveraging his experience and connections within the leasing industry, the Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV), the Department for Transport (DfT), and electric vehicle charging manufacturers to guide businesses in adopting electric cars and vans.

In April 2024, Fleet Electric underwent a rebranding to “Lease Electric,” highlighting Richard’s dedication to providing accessible electric vehicle leasing solutions and taking additional steps to ensure we have a positive impact on our climate.

Rob oversees Randall & Payne’s Tax department and its specialisms, with his own being VAT. Rob helps clients to meet their obligations, will seek to minimise their tax burden and reduce the risk of any tax investigation, and works heavily within the construction, property, education and charity sectors. If you’re a keen runner like Rob, you might spot him pounding the streets or taking part in a parkrun event.

Bishop Fleming is an award-winning, dynamic UK accountancy firm delivering expert audit, accountancy, tax, and advisory services to SMEs, owner managed businesses, large FTSE businesses, public sector organisations, charities, schools or private individuals. Bishop Fleming is a Top 30 firm of accountants with nine offices from Birmingham to Truro.
Rob is a Senior Tax Manager, based in the Cheltenham office, and has over 20 years’ experience working as a private client tax advisor working with a diverse portfolio of clients including high net worth individuals, family business owners, and professional practices.

Robert Games is the Managing Director of Albright IP, a professional firm of British and European Patent and Trade Marks Attorneys, based in Cheltenham. As well as being an Engineer and a creative thinker, Robert is an experienced Chartered British Patent Attorney, European Patent Attorney, IP Litigator (Patents), and Trade Mark Attorney.

Having graduated with an Honours degree in Mechanical Engineering, he worked at the UK Intellectual Property Office as a Patent Examiner in the Engineering Division. Robert qualified quickly as a Patent Attorney and worked for two of the of the country’s leading Patent Attorney firms. He founded Albright IP (formerly Albright Patents) in 2007.

Robert Selwood started his legal career as a trainee solicitor with Morrison & Masters in Swindon. Following completion of his training contract, Robert worked for 8 years at Winterbothams in Stroud. He took a break from practising law to work as a Procurement Specialist and was awarded a Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply Diploma.

I’d rather be a gorilla” said my friends when I told them I wanted to become an accountant. Before I came to Gloucestershire I was working for Mars and that gave them lots of free chocolate – hence their rude comments!

Thirty years on it has turned out to be a fantastic career choice for me. Accountancy can take you in all sorts of directions, whether in practice or within a business. My personal route has been through audit to tax, which I have always found to be challenging and fulfilling. Clients seem to appreciate good tax advice; especially when it leads to tax savings! In the last ten years I have also become a business valuer and an expert witness, primarily for divorce cases and tax professional negligence claims.

Ryan has over 25 years experience in the Home Services and Utilities sector, working across B2B and B2C channels. He demonstrates a rare breed of experience, having been involved and responsible for large scale transformation programmes and projects for companies undergoing significant periods of change where corporate communications are key.

He has delivered large-scale sales and business transformation projects across B2B/B2C sales channels, field operations, call centre and commercial functions for companies such as British Gas and Harvey Water Softeners (Culligan International), and thrives by supporting SMEs to scale, identifying opportunities and developing their sales strategy.

Ryan is Head of Audit and Assurance at Randall & Payne and works closely with executives in organisations across a number of sectors, including Charity Boards and Academies. Having trained in audit at the Big 4, Ryan joined as the firms’ Responsible Individual and draws on his experiences to help clients create value and develop their business ambitions.

I started my career as Mira’s first Finance Apprentice, qualifying as a Chartered Management Accountant in 2007, and was appointed Finance Director in 2015.
Working in a global organisation such as Kohler Co., I have had the amazing opportunity to hold many finance positions across several business units. I’m keen to learn and push myself and drive my development, so last year I enrolled on an MBA course.
Balancing my career, study and being a mum to two gorgeous boys certainly keeps me busy, and I love it!

Sarah Sargeant is the Sales Director at Hayfield, a multi-award-winning housebuilder celebrated for its five-star, zero-carbon-ready, premium new homes. With over 18 years’ experience in the property sector, Sarah joined Hayfield in 2022, bringing a wealth of expertise in sales strategy, team leadership, and market growth from her previous role at Connells Group.

At Hayfield, Sarah leads sales across key developments in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, and Worcestershire. She is instrumental in shaping pricing strategies, coordinating new development launches, and mentoring on-site sales teams to deliver exceptional customer experiences. Under her guidance, projects such as Hayfield Grove in Hallow, Worcestershire, Hayfield Lakes in Clophill, Bedfordshire, and Hayfield Manor in Adderbury, Oxfordshire, have launched and sold out successfully, combining premium design with energy-efficient, sustainable features.

Scott is head of the Hazlewoods Corporate Services team. He has over 26 years’ experience advising corporate clients, family businesses and entrepreneurs from various industries including manufacturing and engineering, wholesale and distribution and motorsport. The majority of Scott’s clients have an international dimension: importing or exporting goods and services, and many have overseas trading operations. Scott is also head of the Charities and Education team, which provides expert advice to charity and academy clients. He has a Diploma in Charity Accounting and also serves on the National HLB Education team.

Sharon MacArthur, Miss Menopause is also Founder and Leadership Confidence Coach at Red Handbag. Originally started to help women with confidence issues in the workplace, Red Handbag has grown to help businesses at all levels develop brilliant leaders. Miss Menopause has been created to fill the void of educational services needed by women and their organisations as they reach menopause. Most women will tell you that they had “the chat” to teach them what was about to happen to their bodies as they reached puberty. Sadly it is estimated less than 10% of companies across the UK are educating their workforce about menopause and the impact it could have.

At Red Handbag we are passionate about getting rid of poor management behaviours, through coaching, training and mentoring. Everyone can benefit from leadership development getting results from what you do, not just what you know.

Shaun manages the Accounting Services team at Randall & Payne alongside Nikki Cairns.
Working with owner-managed and growing businesses to provide clear financial insights and practical advice. With expertise in accounts, year-end planning, and tax opportunities, he helps business owners make informed decisions, drive sustainable growth and give strategic advice as mentor or coach.

Silas Miller is Head of Marketing and Business Development and a Board Director at WSP Solicitors. He joined the business in June 2019, after working as a Marketing Account Manager developing youth and student marketing strategies for national and global brands. Silas became a Board Director for WSP Solicitors in July 2022.

Focussing on improving the digital marketing and presence of WSP Solicitors in the first instance, Silas has aided in the growth of the business and the brand throughout the county and now contributes, alongside the board on strategic direction.

Simon is a director at Camargue – an award-winning, employee-owned communications agency with offices in Cheltenham, London, Birmingham, York and Cardiff. Simon helps manage corporate reputations, support businesses through growth, re-structure and change, and help organisations connect with each other and their stakeholders from national and local government through to the man and woman in the street.

Simon Hewer, the son of David Hewer, founder of Hewer Facilities Management (established in 1965), has built an impressive career within the company. Rising through the ranks, Simon assumed full control of the business in the late 1990s. Under his leadership, the organisation has achieved substantial growth, culminating in a recent management buyout and his appointment as CEO.

Robert Hitchins Ltd is an active member of the Gloucestershire business community with extensive land interests and commercial property thorough the region. Simon leads an experienced team of property professionals. He is looking to strengthen and add to the Robert Hitchins property portfolio and is always keen
to speak to companies wishing to explore their

Sophie is the Client Service Director for Golley Slater Cirencester and has worked in creative agencies for almost 20 years. Starting her early career in Cheltenham, she has lived and worked in the Middle East, Sweden, Amsterdam and London with a number of high-profile accounts across multiple sectors including Charity, Financial Services, Automotive and Manufacturing. Now settled back into the Cotswolds she is driving the agency’s new B2B proposition forward to bring an end-to-end solution to her clients. Committed to understanding business challenges and goals she thrives on building a team to enable clients to grow their prospects, engage and retain their existing customers and ultimately improve sales and ROI. Committed to understanding business challenges and goals she thrives on building a team to enable clients to grow their prospects, engage and retain their existing customers and ultimately improve sales and ROI.

Brickhampton Court has a reputation for quality hospitality, great service and professionalism with a wide range of facilities that do not just cater for the golfers. Brickhampton Court Golf Complex provides a friendly and welcoming atmosphere to its members and visitors alike.

Stuart Hesk is the Director of Heating at Hewer Facilities Management, bringing extensive industry expertise to drive innovation, operational excellence, and growth. He has been pivotal in securing key contracts and delivering exceptional service to clients, including domestic customers, social housing providers, businesses, and public institutions

Lilian Faithfull Care is a charity caring for 300 residents across our care homes and day centres in Gloucestershire. An elderly care and dementia professional working at the charity for nearly 25 years!

Suzanne heads up the team at Golley Slater Results marketing, based in CIrencester.
She has been delivering effective programmes in the B2B space for over 20 years. She has worked in agencies for her entire career, both in and out of London, and has been an instrumental member and shareholder in the leadership teams of 2 successful start ups which has given her insight into; and empathy with the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in fledgling businesses and those looking to grow at pace. Her sector experience is broad, and in additional to B2B work, spans FMCG, Travel and Tourism, Financial Services and Public Sector. Her main focus in all clients is using marketing to drive sustainable, accountable bottom line gains.

Terry Edgell is one of three founding shareholders of Premier Forest Group which was formed in 1993 and he also acts as the groups CEO. Premier Forest is one of the largest vertically integrated timber companies in the UK. The group operates from 15 sites across the UK and Ireland and is principally engaged in the

Randall & Payne are a leading independent firm of chartered accountants offering a full range of accountancy & audit services, specialist tax advice and bespoke business problem solving to clients across Gloucestershire, throughout the UK and internationally. Tim started as an apprentice and is now responsible for the leadership of the firm. His primary area of expertise is Tax, but he looks after everything from accounts and tax to business advice for clients.

Tina is passionate about Hope for Tomorrow and the service and benefits it provides to patients. She joined the charity in January 2015, after her mum was treated on the Gloucestershire unit.
It is very different from the world she came from, but she enjoys the variety with each day being different and having to learn so much. She is a tenacious individual who thrives on watching her team develop and succeed.

Tom Horne is Co-Founder and CEO of Contact Web, a fast-growing BPO and customer experience specialist. Drawing on over 16 years in international operations and financial services, Tom previously held senior leadership roles with responsibility for contact centres, compliance, and P&L across multiple continents.

Bishop Fleming is an award-winning, dynamic UK accountancy firm delivering expert audit, accountancy, tax, and advisory services to SMEs, owner managed businesses, large FTSE businesses, public sector organisations, charities, schools or private individuals. Bishop Fleming is a Top 30 firm of accountants with nine offices from Birmingham to Truro.
Tom has extensive audit experience working with both large international corporations and SMEs. His passion for creating long-lasting working relationships with businesses ensures he provides a high quality, personal service.

Tom Parsons is an expert in the UK energy market, specialising in helping UK households make sustainable choices, while lowering their energy costs.
Tom has led strategy and sales teams for the past 15 years at EDF, Drax and most recently Good Energy, where he is currently Director of Sales and Origination. He recently gained his MBA from Exeter University in sustainable business management. Tom passionately believes that renewable power is not only the right environmental solution, but also the right financial solution, giving households energy independence and long-term lower costs.

In August 2024, Toni became Grundon’s first Risk and Sustainability Director, as well as the company’s first female board member. She is a long-serving committee member of the WISH (Waste Industry Safety & Health) Forum, focusing on improving standards within the SME sectors, and also a member of the ESA Health & Safety Strategy Group.
Toni joined Grundon in 1996 as Landfill Manager, a role which gradually expanded until she became Compliance Manager in 2008, taking on responsibility for health & safety. A decade later, she was promoted to Head of Compliance and joined the Senior Leadership Team.

Lucozade Ribena Suntory is a leading soft drinks business in the UK. Our much-loved brands include Lucozade Energy, Lucozade Sport, Ribena and Orangina. We are committed to providing healthier drinks and inspiring active lifestyles.

With over 25 years in PR, Verity holds the highest level degree from Bournemouth University’s Centre for Excellence in Media Practice.

Building a reputation as a communications specialist, she has created communication and digital strategies for some of the most exciting B2B and B2C brands worldwide including Norton Internet Security, 3Mobile and AXA PPP.

I was 17 when I joined Premier Forest Products Ltd. The company was just going into its fifth year of business and I was starting out as an admin apprentice. That was 23 years ago and Premier has grown to a team of 400, with 16 sites in the UK and Ireland and a turnover of £170M. Meanwhile, I’ve gone from apprentice to company secretary. I think it’s fair to say we’ve grown up together!

As well as being an admin apprentice, I’ve been an admin assistant, admin manager and HR manager before I became Company Secretary in 2019. If you’d told me on that first day in 1998 that this is where I’d end up I’m not sure I’d have believed it.

Starting in such a junior role and working my way up means that I’ve gained a really thorough understanding about how the business works. I’ve seen it from all angles and I know what will work and what won’t.

Will is partner and head of Management and Business Advisory Services at Randall & Payne. Helping business people achieve success by bringing clarity and commitment to their plans, he works with many sectors to develop and implement strategy.

Will joined the Renishaw graduate scheme in 1996. He holds a degree in physics from Oxford University and an MBA from Bath University. He became Director and General Manager for the Laser and Calibration Products
Division in 2007 and subsequently Director and General Manager of the Machine Tool Products Division in 2014. He was appointed Director of

Zoe is a private client tax partner with 25 years’ experience as a Chartered Tax Advisor and member of the Society and of Trust and Estate Practitioners. Zoe has a wealth of experience advising high-net-worth individuals, business owners and trusts on financial matters including protecting family wealth, trust and estate planning, succession planning and asset disposals. Her specialist areas include capital gains tax, inheritance tax, trusts and estates.