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Entrepreneurs’ Forum reveals eighth scale-up cohort

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum has announced the six entrepreneurs making up its eighth Scale-up Leaders’ Academy cohort.

Toby Bailey, of RED Engineering; Hamish Adamson, of Harlyn Solutions; James Clinghan, of Trusted Business Partners; Douglas Dinwiddie, of Maitland; Lee Robinson, of JohnJasper Associates; and Lyle McCalmont, of .MCD are the entrepreneurs participating in this year’s programme.

Launched in 2017, the Academy has supported 70 North East entrepreneurs across the North East to focus on achieving sustainable high growth by creating a blueprint for future business success.

The Academy’s impact has been recognised on a national scale with the ScaleUp Institute naming it a ‘One to Watch’ programme. 

Elaine Stroud, chief executive of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said: “We’re delighted to welcome six exceptional entrepreneurs to the eighth Scale-up Leaders’ Academy cohort. 

“Our programme is designed to strengthen leadership capabilities, providing our cohort with the skills and understanding they need to sustain and manage their business growth effectively. 

“By working closely with an expert coach and engaging with their peers and senior leadership teams, our cohort will develop a deeper understanding of the core principles that drive sustainable growth. The Academy offers a supportive environment where they can refine their strategies, build resilience and create a solid foundation for long-term success.”

Delivered over six months, the Scale-up Leaders’ Academy helps participants to build a blueprint for growth and is divided into four sections: people, strategy, execution and cash.

Previous participants include Daniel Wade, of Darlington-based Wade Construction Management Consultants, who joined last year’s cohort.

Since graduating from the Academy, Daniel has been instrumental in driving Wade CMC’s impressive growth, trebling its size in just two years.

Under his leadership, Wade CMC has secured new partnerships and attracted £500,000 investment to fuel further expansion.

Daniel said: “It’s been incredibly powerful involving the team in developing our purpose, values and strategy. Creating these foundations of the business together means they are all bought into the direction we are heading and what we are trying to achieve.

“Capturing our strategy on the One Page Strategic Plan has been game-changing for us. Knowing what you are trying to achieve provides clarity and without the Scale-up Leaders’ Academy I would not have that clarity of vision."

Through coaching sessions, workshops and mentoring support, the Scale-up Leaders’ Academy provides an environment where North East entrepreneurs can collaborate to generate new ideas, resolve critical issues and share good practice.

Elaine added: “The ScaleUp Insititute’s 2024 Report identified that the development of clusters and hubs is a key enabler of local scale-up success. 

“That’s why our Academy emphasises peer-to-peer learning, empowering like-minded entrepreneurs to grow their businesses together all while fostering regional growth.

“We’re excited to work closely with our eighth cohort in the following months and in supporting them to achieve their growth ambitions.”

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum was founded in 2002 is a vibrant community of over 340 North East entrepreneurs. 

Its partners include Agilico, RBC Brewin Dolphin, Hilton Newcastle Gateshead, Northumbria University, Ward Hadaway, Blu Sky, Maitland, North East Times and LDC.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Entrepreneurs' Forum .