Future Leaders Programme: Bitesize session 2

North East Chamber of Commerce Future Leaders Programme

The North East Chamber of Commerce Future Leaders Programme, delivered in partnership with Gateshead College and supported by two of the region’s Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIP), is designed to help early-career professionals build confidence, communication skills and professional presence, while growing their regional networks.

Across 2026, participants can take part in three high-profile bitesize networking sessions and three full-day workshops, all focused on the skills employers tell us matter most in the modern workplace – from communication and personal impact to emotional intelligence and leadership.

Bitesize Session 2: Peer mentoring, strategic networking & public speaking

Date: Friday 24 April 2026

This second bitesize session focuses on three essential skills that underpin effective leadership at every stage of a career: building meaningful professional relationships, learning from others and communicating with confidence.

A follow-up full-day workshop on 22 May will allow a smaller group to explore these themes in more depth, with practical tools they can take straight back to the workplace. Places for the workshop will be limited.

Guest speaker: Sam Rennison

We are delighted to welcome Sam Rennison, a retired Chief Superintendent with a 30-year career in policing.

Sam led Northumberland’s policing with courage, compassion and impact, improving emergency response times, launching a rural policing model and leading in some of the most complex operational environments. She was awarded the King’s Police Medal for her service and was highly commended in the Chamber’s Inspiring Women in Business Awards in 2025.

A mentor and advocate for equality, Sam brings a practical and grounded perspective on leadership, resilience and the environments people need to thrive. She will share real-world insight into peer mentoring, strategic networking and public speaking.

AGENDA

09:30 Registration & Networking - Informal peer connections

10:00 Keynote: The art of networking

10:45 Break

11:00 Workshop: Peer mentoring and public speaking

12:15 Group reflection and action planning

12:45 Lunch & Networking

SAVE THE DATE:

Full day workshop 2: 22 May (09:30 - 16:00)

Bitesize networking event 3: Emotional Intelligence for Future Leaders and Authentic Connections - 23 June (09:30-13:30)

Full day workshop 3: 21 July (09:30 - 16:00)

The programme can be found here: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/792900373/

What do I wear to a Chamber event: We don’t have a dress code, but we suggest dressing as if meeting new clients. Your comfort is key.

Behaviour and conduct: our events create an inclusive space for individuals and organisations to meet, where we expect all our attendees to behave with courtesy and respect, to both each other and Chamber colleagues.