LOCAL MP Rachel Maclean hosted the first of her Business Leaders’ events last Friday.
Some 40 owners and managers attended the working lunch event at Osprey House, part of Heart of Worcestershire College and were put to work by Mrs Maclean to help her understand what businesses in Redditch needed from her, particularly regarding the skills gap.
And with Simon Hyde, chief executive Redditch-based Faun Zoeller, she also launched her Business Mentors’ Scheme aimed at getting together high-flying business people with something to give anyone who wants to get into the world of business but needs a bit of a head start.
“Simon is an inspirational character because by his own admission he has risen from challenging youngster to the CEO of a multi-million pound company,” said Mrs Maclean.
“And this is just the type of person I want to encourage to be a mentor, because he is living proof that if you have ambition, you can make it in the world of business.
“I was delighted that 16 people signed up to be mentors, and I will now be drawing up a plan to take my ideas forward.”
The meeting was the first opportunity for many from the local business world to meet the new MP, and she pledged to help as much as she could in the coming months and years.
“There are many businesses covering a wide platform of sectors in Redditch, and many seem to be booming although I recognise the degree of uncertainty with Brexit looming,” said Mrs Maclean.
“However I am confident that, with support, the business community in Redditch has a bright future and I look forward to further meetings and the chance to develop my ideas and visit as many businesses as possible within the coming months.”
To be added to the list of businesses invited to future meetings email [email protected].
