Regional event: Birmingham

Breakfast and refreshments are provided.

Kai Peters, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Business & Law, Coventry University Group 

We will be kickstarting the day with an engaging networking exercise. You will be given a set of business-focused questions and encouraged to discuss the answers with your peers. This is your opportunity to share and hear from other business leaders about their journey. 

During our opening session, you will hear from Shaun Sookoo about his entrepreneurial journey. Shaun has overseen a diverse portfolio of companies spanning from food manufacturing, distribution, care, property, and non-profit sectors. His ventures employ over 120 individuals and generate a collective turnover of nearly £20 million.

Shaun will delve into the intricacies of his experience, focusing not only on his successes but also on the challenges he has faced. Specifically, he will discuss the importance of nurturing your workforce, assembling a capable team to facilitate growth, and contributing to the community.

Shaun Sookoo, Founder, Viomar Holdings  

Every business wants to grow, but figuring out the best way, is far from easy. Thankfully, the solutions and support you need, may not be far away. Whether it’s advice on raising finance, key information, or support on entering new markets.  

Our stellar panel includes representatives from businesses who have successfully expanded their operations by getting the right support, as well as a selection of organisations that can help you get the support you need.    

Key takeaways will include:  

• Introductions to business support services in the West Midlands.  
• Ways to access finance in your area. 
• Who you can talk to and receive tailored advice.
• How purpose and strong values can be a catalyst for growth. 

Chaired by Greg Caiger, Regional Director, HSBC

Henrietta Brealey, CEO, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce  

Monder Ram, Professor of Small Business and Director, CREME Aston Business School  

Damini Sharma, CEO and Founder, The OM Group

In this session, Gus will guide you through strategies to optimise your business’s digital marketing channels, enhance visibility and attract new customers. Learn how to leverage social media platforms to improve sales and digital presence, whilst saving time and resources.  

This masterclass will focus on these key areas:  

• Setting clear objectives: Learn how to establish measurable goals.  
• Strategies for achieving your social media marketing goals: Discover the ideal platforms, content nuances, and time allocation for maximum impact.  
• Customer connection tactics: Learn how to craft compelling content strategies, expand reach, and master inbound/outbound techniques.  
• Measure success: Learn to track metrics, understand how to distinguish between organic and paid strategies, and ensure your efforts yield results.  

Benefit from practical examples, case studies, and engaging activities to ignite your digital marketing journey.  

Gus Bhandal, Founder, The M Guru 

In this unique keynote, the Co-Founder of Black Business Magazine will share her remarkable journey of establishing her personal brand and the profound impact it had on her business. Join us to learn about the innovative steps you can take to elevate your visibility, expand your network, and enhance your business’s credibility and consumer trust. Explore the essence of your brand’s identity and learn how to authentically present yourself to seize lucrative opportunities, attract investment, and develop exit strategies when necessary.  

Justice Williams, Co-Founder & Editor in Chief, Black Business Magazine 

Kai Peters, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Business & Law, Coventry University Group