THE new CEO of the North East’s largest entrepreneur membership group has been unveiled at its autumn conference.

Elaine Stroud was confirmed as the new chief executive of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum following a period of change for the organisation.

Addressing an audience of 250 North East entrepreneurs, chairman James Robson MBE revealed the leadership change during the Forum’s Together We Can Take on the World conference

Elaine said: “I am thrilled to be appointed at this important time as we emerge from the pandemic and bring back our in-person events, including this conference. The Forum was created almost 20 years ago for entrepreneurs to learn and to be inspired by each other and this ethos remains at our core.

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"Right now, entrepreneurs have the opportunity to lead and inspire those around them to be make positive changes for world we live in and I’m excited to be leading the Forum as we play our part.”

Elaine has been part of the Forum since 2013 when she joined as finance manager. During this time, she ensured the financial sustainability of the organisation while helping to grow its membership and build strong relationships with its partners.

The appointment follows the departure of Jonathan Lamb in the summer due to health reasons.

James Robson said: “The last two years have been exceptional for us all. Focusing on enhancing our member and partner experience, Jonathan accelerated the Forum’s online presence and introduced new events to our portfolio all while navigating the everchanging circumstances of the pandemic.

“We’d like to say thank you to Jonathan for the contribution he has made to the Forum’s strategy, and we wish him the very best.

“2022 marks the Forum’s 20th anniversary, an exciting period for the organisation. With the appointment of Elaine as CEO, I am confident she will strengthen our existing network and ensure the Forum is stronger than ever before.

“Elaine has served as interim CEO since Jonathan’s exit in the summer where she has proven she is the best person to lead the Forum’s next chapter of growth and success.”

 

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