Event format:
This event marks the official launch of the North East Chamber of Commerce’s new Policy Plan for 2025 to 2027.
Built in partnership with businesses across our region, Unlocking the North East Economy: Innovate, Connect, Thrive sets out the policy interventions needed to create the conditions for sustainable growth, high-quality jobs and a more productive, inclusive economy.
We are not waiting to be told what our region needs. This plan sets out clearly what North East businesses need to thrive.
Succeeding the Stronger, Fairer North East: A Strategy for Change 2023–2025, this new plan builds on our core policy pillars and reflects the evolving challenges and ambitions of our business community.
Join us to hear from the Chamber’s leadership, our partners and members about what this plan means in practice – and how, together, we will help unlock the full potential of the North East economy.
Audience Profile: Full membership mix, various sectors, business size and roles.
RUNNING ORDER
10:30 Arrival and refreshments
10:50 Welcome - Deb Walton, Chamber President & Chief Finance Officer, Palintest
11:05 Chief Executive's overview of new Policy Plan - John McCabe, Chamber Chief Executive
11:20 NECC Policy Plan – Unlocking the North East Economy: what it means for business / NECC members
Introduction - Rhiannon Bearne, Chamber Deputy CEO & Exec. Director - Policy & Representation.
Partner Remarks
1) Nikola McNicol-Kenney, VP Small Segment UKI and representing Sage
2) Gill Hunter, Managing Partner, Square One Law
3) Dr Suzanne Hague, Principal Lecturer, Teesside University International Business School and Chair NECC Partners
Fireside panel discussion (25m) followed by Audience Q&A (30m) - chaired by RB
12:15 Closing remarks from the President
Followed by tea, coffee, cake and biscuits, plus networking
12:30 Event close
Who will I meet?: A full mix of Chamber members from various sectors, business size and roles.
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.
