Prepare to be Inspired!

Join us for an inspiring event hosted by Inspired HR, exploring the power of partnerships and collaboration in business.

In a world that often celebrates solo success, we’re here to shine a light on what’s really behind most thriving businesses; strong partnerships, meaningful collaboration, and the people who’ve helped us along the way.

Whether you’re a founder, freelancer, or business leader, this session is for anyone who knows that we get further when we work together.

Our brilliant speakers will share honest stories of how partnerships helped shape their journeys - whether through clients, collaborators, mentors, or business allies. They’ll reflect on the moments when support from others opened doors, sparked ideas, or helped navigate challenges. And they won’t just talk about the highlights - they’ll also share the bumps in the road, including when trying to do it all alone slowed things down, or when a partnership taught a tough lesson.

This session is all about real stories: of teamwork, shared wins, tricky dynamics, and the people who’ve helped turn ideas into reality.

You’ll gain practical insights into how to build stronger business relationships, collaborate with confidence, and create partnerships that drive meaningful impact.

With time to connect, reflect, and be inspired by others who believe in working together, this event will leave you energised and ready to build stronger, more purposeful partnerships in your own work.

Because success isn’t built solo – it’s built together.

Speaker line up

Sarah Reid – Managing Director, Richard Reed Solicitors

Sarah is Managing Director of Richard Reed Solicitors, where collaboration and relationships are at the heart of how the firm operates and grows. With over 20 years’ experience, Sarah’s career spans from Family Law Solicitor to becoming a Director and now MD—leading the firm through continual innovation, growth, and success.

Sarah believes in building strong partnerships between legal teams and clients - not just giving advice, but working side-by-side to solve real problems. Under her leadership, Richard Reed has earned a reputation for combining excellent service with an open, human approach.

At this event, Sarah will share how strong partnerships (within the business and beyond) have shaped the firm’s culture and success. She’ll offer real-world insights into the power of trust, collaboration, and aligning values in professional services.

Phil Benton – Photographer & Creative Business Owner

Phil is a passionate photographer known for capturing the raw beauty and wildlife of North East England. What began as a hobby soon became a thriving creative business rooted in a love for the region’s landscapes.

Phil’s work isn’t just about photography - it’s about storytelling. He shares the moments behind each image, revealing the people, places, and patience it takes to capture them. His eye for detail has grown into a business offering everything from prints and wall art to greeting cards and coasters, bringing the outside in and making nature part of everyday life.

At this event, Phil will share how turning a creative passion into a purpose-led business was only made possible through local relationships, trusted collaborators, and shared belief in the power of beauty to inspire.

Ashleigh Wright – Managing Director, Westray Recruitment Group

Ashleigh is the newly appointed Managing Director of Westray Recruitment Group - a role that crowns 18 years of dedication to her family business. Known for her straight-talking style, deep industry knowledge, and heart-led leadership, Ashleigh brings energy, commercial focus, and genuine care for people to everything she does.

From administrator to the boardroom, Ashleigh has built strong, lasting client relationships by prioritising partnership and authenticity. She’s led Westray into a new era while honouring its heritage - working across key sectors and championing clients who’ve stayed with the business for over 20 years.

At this event, Ashleigh will share what she’s learned about staying true to your values in leadership and how long-term partnerships, both inside and outside your organisation, are the real key to sustainable growth.

Julie Turnbull – Transformational Coach & Co-Founder, The Collective Group

Julie Turnbull is a transformational coach, multi-business owner, and champion of people-first growth. With over 20 years’ experience across HR, recruitment, and business leadership, she’s seen first-hand that true success isn’t just about strategy – it’s about people seeing their own potential and being supported to act on it.

As co-founder of The Collective Group, Julie helps individuals and teams cut through the noise, connect to their strengths, and grow through the power of intentional collaboration. Her work brings together networks, opportunities, and insight to create real momentum - without the burnout.

At this event, Julie will share her journey from corporate leadership to purpose-led entrepreneurship, and how collaboration has shaped every stage. She’ll reflect on the relationships, conversations and decisions that sparked growth, and how clarity and connection continue to guide the way forward.

John Devitt – CEO & Founder, Recovery4Life

John is the founder and CEO of Recovery4Life, an award-winning occupational health provider delivering integrated services that support both employers and employees through some of life’s most complex challenges. From mental health and addiction support to drug testing, training, and specialist treatment, John leads a multi-disciplinary team dedicated to keeping people well and workforces thriving.

With a career spanning international development, enterprise, and healthcare, John brings deep insight into how business and wellbeing intersect. Under his leadership, Recovery4Life has become known for its practical, compassionate, and solutions-focused approach—offering not just diagnosis but real recovery pathways.

At this event, John will join Nikki Masterman to share memorable stories of partnership in action - where occupational health, business leadership, and people support came together to create better outcomes for everyone involved. His talk will highlight why collaboration between HR and occupational health isn't just smart, it’s essential.

Tickets are limited, so if you cannot attend, please provide as much notice as possible and cancel your ticket via Eventbrite or let us know directly.

Don’t miss out on this powerful, inspiring event!

If you learn by hearing people share their experiences and how they got the courage to do things differently, then register today as this event is for you! If you are new to networking or to this event, please know we pride ourselves in curating a welcoming and inclusive community. If you need some help breaking into groups of people chatting, please find your host Zoe, she will help with any introductions and networking facilitation.

Register today to secure your spot and take the first step towards embracing adversity, defying expectations, and leading with purpose.

A little more about Inspired HR

At Inspired HR, we go beyond simply ticking boxes. We’re committed to building authentic, lasting relationships that foster sustainable practices and support your success. We believe that true prosperity is about more than just profits; it's about nurturing relationships that align with your business goals and aspirations. We understand that managing people is an inherent part of the business landscape and deeply care about businesses doing right for their people. Our foundation is built on catering to the unique needs of our clients, particularly those in the SME market. We specialize in providing essential HR, Recruitment, Training, and Mediation services in a flexible manner, designed to suit your specific requirements. Whether you prefer a Pay as You Go (PAYG) model or a retained arrangement, we have you covered.

Getting there

The event will be held in the new Digital Space at Gateshead College. The college is easily accessible via bus with multiple bus stops within a 10-minute walk and the closest Metro station is Gateshead which is a 10-minute walk away. There is a car park on site at Gateshead College and another opposite the campus, just outside PROTO also, they are both chargeable/Pay By Phone.

Please note, this event is being filmed and photographs will be taken throughout the event and shared on social media. If you have any concerns, please speak to Zoe Maylam.

Support the event by sharing it across your social media platforms and tagging Inspired HR on LinkedIn!

For any questions or further information, feel free to contact our event organiser, Zoe Maylam, at zoe@inspired-hr.co.uk.