Birmingham Forward's new chair to focus on plight of SMEs
Mar 31 2009 By Christina Savvas
The new chair of networking organisation Birmingham Forward said the focus during her tenure would be on guiding small and medium enterprises through the tough economic times.
Sue Lewis, senior practice partner at law firm Eversheds, who takes over the chairmanship from Richard Edwards, will lay out a plan to support members through the next year, at the organisation’s annual meeting tonight. The proposals will include details of a trial scheme to assist professionals recently made redundant.
In her speech tonight Ms Lewis will say: “Our members have told us that it is the smaller companies who have less time or opportunity to engage with Forward – our events, campaigns and lobbying initiatives. We know that our members, now and in the future, come in all shapes and sizes. We need to work harder to connect with more of them and make sure the entrepreneurs and successful companies of tomorrow have access to and the support of Forward and the wider professional community.”
Mr Edwards is expected to reflect on Birmingham Forward’s past year. He will say: “As I look back on the key objectives we set 12 months ago, I am pleased to say we have made good progress. For the last two years, we spent considerable effort in securing a Business Improvement District around Colmore Row. The Colmore Business District is home to some 500 businesses – and employs over 24,000 people. At the beginning of March, the Colmore BID received a resounding majority in favour – some 87 per cent of those who voted. It will start work next month.
“With our partners, Birmingham Forward has been a lead player in the High Court Justice Campaign. I am pleased that the pilot for a permanent Administrative Court begins in just a few days’ time. We have been active in our support of the redevelopment of New Street station and the runway extension at Birmingham International Airport. Both are key if we are to be serious contenders on the global stage.”
Members will be asked to approve accounts for last year showing increases in revenues from membership fees and sponsorship which helped to deliver a pre-tax surplus of nearly £18,000. Combined turnover of Birmingham Forward and Future exceeded £500,000 for a first time.
Four new directors up for election are: Andrew Bass, Mark Whitehouse, Nick Venning and Stephen Cockrell. Sally Beavan, a partner at PKF, will assume board responsibility for finance.
