Connects Network at Keele - Session 1 - September 2025

Connects Network is a not-for-profit organisation offering relaxed, informal networking opportunities, facilitated by a group of local business owners from across Staffordshire. Passionate about bringing people together, they champion the positive aspects of their communities.

In preparation for the Shaping the Future Business Festival 2026, Connects Network is partnering with Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and Keele University, to host another large-scale session at the Denise Coates Foundation Building on Keele’s campus.

This special event brings together key voices shaping Staffordshire’s screen industries — from location services and community cinema to the legal foundations of intellectual property. It promises a fascinating cross-section of the sectors that proudly call Staffordshire home.

The event is completely free, and includes lunch and refreshments.

Speaker 1: Jonny Shelton, Staffordshire Film Office

Jonny leads the new Screen Staffordshire – the county’s first Film & TV office – as part of a three‑year pilot funded by Staffordshire County Council and “We Are Staffordshire." He brings six years of UK film and television experience, including roles at Creative England’s Filming in England team and as a Membership Talent Executive at the Production Guild of Great Britain

Speaker 2: Grace Jordan, Stoke-on-Trent Film Theatre

Grace Jordan is the Director of Stoke Film Theatre, which reopened in October 2024 at The Wade Centre, marking its 50th anniversary. Originally co-founded with her husband in 1974, Grace led efforts to revive the independent cinema after its closure, overseeing its move, fundraising, and fit-out. She continues to champion its mission of screening independent and international films for local audiences.

Speaker 3: Andrew Pilkington

As Group Managing Director at Knights Group Holdings plc, Andrew works closely with Client Services and Operations Directors to oversee service delivery across the firm. With a background as a commercial lawyer he ensures strong coordination across teams and strategic alignment of complex client needs

Under his leadership Knights offers comprehensive intellectual property services—from trademark, design and patent registration to high-value enforcement and portfolio commercialization

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Lunch & Networking

Digest what you've learned along with complementary refreshments and food, and get chatting to fellow entrepreneurs, business and organisations from the area!

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More information about Connects: www.connectsnetwork.co.uk

More information about Keele's Innovation Centre: https://www.keele.ac.uk/business/scienceandinnovationpark/facilitiesandavailability/smartinnovationhub/