Small Business Charter appoints new chair

London-based the Small Business Charter (SBC) has named Byron Dixon OBE, founder and chief executive officer of Micro-Fresh, as its new chair, succeeding Michael Hayman MBE.

An entrepreneur with extensive experience in scaling businesses globally, Byron has led Micro-Fresh to success across multiple industries, including textiles, healthcare, construction and food packaging. He is a strong advocate for small businesses and the role of universities in fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth.

He said: “I am honoured to take on the role of chair of the Small Business Charter Management Board. 

“Small businesses are a vital part of the UK economy and business schools play a critical role in their development. 

“As an entrepreneur I have personally experienced the expertise and support that business schools provide, which have been invaluable in helping me to grow and develop my business. 

“I look forward to working with the team and network of accredited schools to continue to strengthen the impact they have on small businesses in every part of the economy.” 

As chair, Byron will guide the SBC’s mission to support business schools in empowering small businesses, student entrepreneurs and local economies. 

His appointment coincides with the organisation’s 10th anniversary, marking a decade of impactful collaboration with 68 accredited business schools across the UK and Ireland.

Flora Hamilton, executive director of SBC, added: “We are delighted to welcome Byron to the Small Business Charter. 

“Byron’s extensive experience as a successful entrepreneur and his passion for the role business schools can play in supporting small businesses make him perfectly suited to lead the SBC at this pivotal time. 

“His leadership will help us build on our mission to connect business schools with small businesses to foster growth, innovation, and productivity.” 

Professor Stewart Robinson, chair of the Chartered ABS and Dean of Newcastle University Business School, added: “Byron brings invaluable expertise to his role as chair of the SBC. 

“As a successful business leader with extensive experience of working with business schools, he is uniquely positioned to champion the SBC’s mission and to help us work with government and other stakeholders in collaborating to accelerate economic growth. 

“I look forward to working with him.” 

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