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Alice Hall among entrepreneurial speakers at Durham International Festival of Enterprise

A full speaker lineup for Durham International Festival of Enterprise has been released, where local business leaders such as Pink Boutique’s Alice Hall will be revealing the secrets to their business success.

One of Durham’s leading entrepreneurial events, prominent North East figures will gather at the Gala Theatre on the 28th February and 1st March to share top tips for succeeding in business.

Around 900 small firms and would-be business owners are expected to attend, with speakers also including former international rugby player Rory Underwood MBE, serial entrepreneur Ammar Mirza CBE and Fentimans drinks’ export director Piero Alberici.

On the second day of the event, more in-depth workshops will be available for businesses across the North, full of practical advice hints and tips on everything from sales & marketing to finance & funding and international trade.

Focusing on real business, real challenges and offering solutions, motivation and advice, the festival has been designed specifically for the entrepreneur according to organisers.

Speaking about the event, Simon Goon at Business Durham, said: “To attract such influential speakers is a clear sign that this event will raise the profile of Durham as a place where business is done.

“We’re delighted to be working with Durham University on this event celebrating enterprise, a vital part of Durham’s economic prosperity.”

Speakers

Seaham-based Great Annual Savings will be headline sponsors for the event, with other confirmed sponsors including the Department for International Trade, Clive Owen LLP and Endeavour Partnership.

The full speaker lineup is listed below:

Mark Sephton – Event host and international mentor to entrepreneurs

Rory Underwood MBE – Partner Wingman Ltd and former England International Rugby player

Ammar Mirza CBE – Serial Entrepreneur

Piero Alberici – Export Director, Fentimans

Alice Hall, Creative Director, Pink Boutique

Andrew Tomlinson – Director, Andrew James

Bethany Ainsley – CEO, Nouveau Wellbeing

Vince Robson, who manages Enterprise at Durham University and conceived the Festival idea added: “The Festival will provide an excellent opportunity for our students, staff and alumni to enhance their learning and engage with a diverse business community.

“We have developed a programme that is highly inspirational and rich in entrepreneurial content.”