Panel revealed for event on investment and employment opportunities

The breakfast event on September 25 at Darlington College will discuss whether we still have pride in our region and talk about how regeneration and a local focus on investment can build stronger communities.

It is the latest in the Impact series of in-depth business discussions being run by BUSINESSiQ, the business arm of The Northern Echo. The Impact campaign backs economic, social and environmental change across the North East, helping build a region where businesses do well and communities have a real stake in the growth happening around them.

With a new Government in place, the spotlight on Andy Burnham’s regions is brighter than ever, with his pledge to deliver power ‘into every postcode', so the event will also look at how our own regional powerhouse is working in partnership with Government to build for the future.

And we are in the perfect venue, with Darlington College at the heart of one of the most exciting schemes – the culmination of the Central Park project in Darlington with a new STEM centre backed by millions in funding from the Government.

To discuss these vital issues in depth, we have assembled  a group of decision-makers who are bringing these projects to life.

 David Gartland is Chief Executive of our hosts, Darlington College, one of the region's key education and skills providers. His experience in workforce development, skills provision and employer engagement provides an important perspective on how investment in people underpins economic success.

Alongside him will be Rose Rouse, Chief Executive of Darlington Borough Council who will discuss the role of local leadership in creating attractive, investable places that support businesses and communities.

Rachel Anderson is Assistant Director of Policy at the North East Chamber of Commerce, representing the voice of thousands of businesses across the region, shaping policy and advocating for the needs of employers. 

To reserve a free seat for this important event, CLICK HERE

 Mark Stamper, Head of Inclusive Growth and Partnerships, Durham County Council brings extensive experience in place-based development and collaborative working between public and private sector organisations.

Huw Lewis, Assistant Director of Communications at Kim McGuinness’s North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, has a strong understanding of the region's wider economic ambitions, investment priorities and strategic vision.

David Hodgson, UK Bus Territory Manager at Darlington engines giant Cummins, will share insight into industrial investment and how technological innovation drives economic resilience.

Sophie Walton is Director of Strategic Partnerships at CPI – the Centre for Process Innovation, working at the intersection of business, innovation and commercialisation with particular expertise in accelerating growth through collaboration.

 BUSINESSiQ Editor Mike Hughes, who will be chairing the event, said: “If you wanted a panel of people to talk about pride in our region , this would be it. It’s an absolute powerhouse and I’m really looking forward to hearing what they have to say on the strategies and projects that are going to change our region for generations.”