With over four decades of experience in business development, economic growth and strategic partnerships, I’ve had the privilege of leading and shaping successful ventures across various industries.  From founding and growing my own company, Classy Rags, to driving regional economic development in Leicester and Leicestershire, my journey has been fuelled by a passion for innovation, collaboration and sustainable growth.

I started my entrepreneurial journey back in 1978 when I co-founded Classy Rags, a company that began with a focus on women’s fashion. However, I soon recognised an exciting opportunity in the corporate clothing market, which led me to pivot the business towards designing and manufacturing bespoke corporate apparel. This strategic shift allowed us to secure significant contracts with major blue-chip companies and, ultimately, positioned the business for a successful acquisition by the Cadogan Group.

Following this, I held senior leadership roles within the Multifabs Group and Alexandra plc, where I was responsible for driving business development and securing new corporate clients. These roles honed my skills in business strategy, relationship management, and team leadership, and allowed me to work with some of the most talented professionals in the industry.

In 2008, I transitioned into the public sector, taking on roles that focused on economic development and innovation. As Head of Inward Investment and later as Head of Business, Innovation, and Partnerships at the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP), I led initiatives that attracted investment, fostered innovation, and built strong partnerships between businesses, local authorities, and government bodies. My work here was all about creating sustainable economic growth and ensuring that our region thrived in an ever-changing economic landscape.

Most recently, I’ve been appointed as a Trustee for the Leicestershire Education Business Company (LEBC), where I will work closely with businesses, schools, and young people to bridge the gap between education and the workplace. It’s a role that allows me to give back to the community and help shape the future workforce.