Member Article

Founder of VMG promoted in government reshuffle

MP takes on business and skills role

A commitment to improved education and his entrepreneurial background has led to Mel Stride MP being promoted within government.

He has been appointed as Parliamentary Private Secretary to John Hayes MP, the Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Life Long Learning, a role which sees Mel join the Business, Innovation and Skills department.

The role means Mel will act on behalf of Mr Hayes in the House of Commons and help him with his work amongst fellow MPs and government ministers.

Mel has a strong background as an entrepreneur having started his own exhibition, conference and publishing business, Venture Marketing Group (VMG), around 25 years ago. Franchise events and media are a key part of VMG’s portfolio. The business has provided a valuable service to the franchise sector for over 20 years.

Following his appointment, Mel said: “I see my new role as an opportunity to promote business and as someone who understands the value and importance of quality franchising this will be very much on my agenda. The British Franchise Association works hard to raise the profile of franchising within government and I will be very happy to support this initiative.”

The role of Parliamentary Private Secretary is typically seen as the first rung on the ministerial ladder.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Emma Ward .