Future Leaders initiative welcomes new partner

A North East professional development programme designed to help the region’s next generation of leaders “find their voice” has welcomed a new business partner following a successful pilot.

Northumbrian Water Group has been announced as the new business sponsor of the North East Chamber of Commerce’s Future Leaders Programme, working alongside the Chamber and Gateshead College on its next phase.

Bringing together early-career professionals from businesses across the region, the programme combines professional development, practical learning and opportunities to build relationships with peers.

Northumbrian Water Group will help shape and coordinate the next programme, contributing its business perspective and experience of hands-on and collaborative learning.

Its involvement was announced at an event on September 24, which reunited participants from the first pilot cohort to celebrate their progress and reflect on their experiences.

The company already delivers experiential learning through initiatives including its Innovation Festival and Young Citizens Work Experience Festival, using practical challenges, collaboration and problem solving to develop skills.

Erin Price, head of academy at Northumbrian Water Group, said: “At Northumbrian Water Group, we believe that investing in people is investing in the future of our region.

“We’re proud to sponsor the Chamber’s Future Leaders programme, helping to develop the skills, confidence and connections that will enable the next generation of leaders to make a positive impact across the North East.”

This year’s Future Leaders programme has covered areas including personal branding, business etiquette, peer mentoring, strategic networking, public speaking and emotional intelligence.

Interactive workshops delivered by Gateshead College have allowed participants to explore the themes in greater depth and put their learning into practice.

Among those taking part was Jess Davey, digital marketing executive at Phonetic Digital.

Steven Parker, managing director at Phonetic Digital, said: “We see the Future Leaders Programme as a real investment in Jess and our business, helping her build the confidence and skills that are essential in today’s rapidly changing workplace.

“The programme gives future leaders practical support to pursue their career ambitions, while bringing together a strong cohort of professionals and laying the foundations for an alumni network that can support them throughout their careers.

“Thanks to the Chamber and Gateshead College for making this happen.”

Meg Hardiman, development and marketing officer at Community Foundation North East, was also part of the first cohort.

She added: “I’ve gained so much from the programme.

“I’m developing valuable skills in areas such as mentorship, handling difficult conversations and building meaningful professional relationships, all within a safe environment alongside my peers.”

Nadine Hudspeth, director of brand and learner experience at Gateshead College, added: “For me, Future Leaders has always been about helping people find their voice.

“Participants have developed confidence, built lasting connections and recognised the value they bring, with many already looking for opportunities to give back by supporting and mentoring young people.

“It’s also important to recognise employers who have backed their future leaders and given them the time and opportunity to be part of the programme.

“When businesses invest in emerging talent, everyone benefits.”

John McCabe, chief executive at the North East Chamber of Commerce, added: “Future Leaders is about giving people at an early stage in their careers the opportunity to build the skills and confidence that will help them thrive in the workplace and contribute to the success of North East businesses.

“The strength of the programme comes from collaboration.

“Gateshead College brings expertise in learning and development, the Chamber connects participants with businesses and peers from across the region, and Northumbrian Water Group will add valuable employer insight and experience as we develop the programme further.

“We’re excited about what we can achieve together as we look towards the next Future Leaders programme.”

The three partners will now use feedback and experiences from the pilot to shape the next stage of Future Leaders.

Read more about the Future Leaders Programme and the thinking behind the initiative in our interview with Nadine here.

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