Thank you 2023...that's a wrap!

I thought I would finish the year with a review of 2023, a la Spotify. I always enjoy this annual feature and seeing what I have been listening to over the course of the year (largely dominated by jazz and hip hop, although the indomitable Taylor Swift made a surprise entry this year at number 5).?

2023 was busy, the second half of the year especially so. I have had the privilege of working with some inspirational individuals and businesses and seeing them grow and prosper is what truly motivates me. The People Puzzles team has expanded in my region and the fantastic Yvonne Phillips (FCIPD) (based in Christchurch) and Beverley Thompson (Reading) have joined my team of expert People Directors.??

In terms of client work we have collectively worked with some amazing businesses this year, helping them to thrive, grow and become better, happier workplaces. Kerry Howard has brilliantly supported Advanced Timber Systems Ltd , CYAN Solutions Ltd and Test Valley Packaging on their growth journeys, whilst James Montgomery has delivered some terrific work with Kendra Energy Solutions Ltd , MESTEC – improving factory performance , SES Autoparts and Peppard Building Supplies Ltd . Beverley Thompson has recently started with Ergéa as their fractional People Director, Philippa Barnes began with Traffi UK | Hand Protection Specialists in October and Sonia Moore completes a project with Hythe Engineering this month. I am eternally grateful for the transformational work you all do for your clients and for your contributions to the wider team.

Wearing my ‘other hats’ I have also had the pleasure of working with Carrie Hamilton and SimComm Academy , facilitating challenging and educational workshops for healthcare professionals and university students. Topics have included ‘Cultural Allyship’, ‘At Ease with Challenging Conversations’ plus training on numerous other communication scenarios. I have also found time for my regular Wednesday evening bar shift at SteamTown Brewhouse; I love my weekly shift of pulling pints of their delicious beer, it really keeps me grounded!?

ESG has been a real theme this year and in November I co-facilitated a workshop on ‘Future Proofing your Business with ESG’ with Natasha Jones and Alana Penkethman from Laceys Solicitors . It’s exciting to see how business leaders are rising to the challenge and recognising the role that business can play in creating a better world for us all.??

I have had real support from Bizpedia , my professional networking group, this year. Thanks to Laura Davis and my fellow members for helping me to think differently and to succeed. We’ve had a lot of fun on the way and also enjoyed some great food and drink together! In August I joined Dorset Chamber and have been inspired by their brilliant team and world-class events. The Future of Business Conference was a real 'highlight of the year' for me.?

I have also had great help from my Liberti Group colleagues in both Thames Valley and the South Coast. We’ve run some brilliant joint events for our teams and helped each other to grow our portfolio of clients. We are stronger together! Special thanks to Christine Durkin MBA , who has been a real rock.?

Lastly, I want to say thanks to everyone at People Puzzles , especially Ally Maughan , Alex Kinchin-Smith , Shaun O'Hara and the whole Regional Director and central team. 2023 has been a challenging year for many reasons and I would have struggled without your wisdom, insight, challenge and support. 2024 promises to be an exciting year as we help more mid-tier business to thrive!?

Wow, a review of 2023 without once mentioning AI! A peaceful and relaxing festive season to my friends, colleagues and connections and a prosperous and healthy 2024 to you all.?