Turning to a new chapter in 2024
I’ve been unusually quiet for the past year but have been on the Linked-in side lines celebrating the successes of those in my network - 2023 was a great year for many of you and for the region itself!
For my part, 2023 was a family focussed year.??Life throws us challenges and curveballs, some family and some work orientated and after delivering 3 expos I knew where I needed to be, and that was at home as my daughter became unwell and A levels beckoned for my son.
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The year also gave me the opportunity to reflect on work and I’ve realised that whilst I am incredibly proud of taking the Business Innovation South Expo, from a simple idea to a respected annual event building each year, I really miss working with other people and the benefits that come with that.
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I’ve always been a people person, thriving on helping others, and most recently, whilst bringing together the expo each year, I have lost count of the times I left meetings with introductions to make?– that is the beauty of a wide and varied network and I loved being able to help make positive connections.
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From 2019 to 2022 my focus was the BIS Expo and I had sole responsibility for every element of the event.?But even though an expo event is all about people, companies, connections and business - so, in essence everything I love - it is just for one day of the year and the rest of the year it was me in my office!
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Prior to creating the expo I ran a charity for just over 5 years and, once again,?it was all about people.??I worked with a fantastic team of staff from support to volunteers, fundraising to service delivery as well as the Board and a significant part of the job was engaging with stakeholders and naturally the children and adults we worked with … people, people, people, a common and passionate thread for me.
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?So, what now?
One new year resolution was to find some inspiring, informative podcasts and amongst others I have found Steve Bartlett’s “Diary of a CEO” and the first episode I listened to with guest Mel Robbins really resonated and has inspired me greatly.??Perhaps fate played a hand - take a listen:
Why you can take your life in a new direction whenever you want!
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Maybe finding that podcast was the universe helping guide me to a new chapter and so I’m excited to say it’s time for a change. This year I turn 55 and want to make sure I find a role doing something I’m passionate about and can focus on whilst working for a company with a great team.
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I’m not sure what yet - I’m totally open to ideas as I have many skills to draw on but I know I want to get back to working with people again.??I’ve been fortunate to work in 3 sectors: commercial, charity and with my own company creating and delivering a regional event so believe I have lots to offer!
?#newstart #newchallenge
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What lessons have I learned?
·????? That with belief, planning, self-motivation, hard work and dedication you can achieve anything
·????? The early bird really DOES catch the worm!
·????? People buy people and passion – put your message out and believe in it
·????? When you work on your own it is good to have trusted people who will challenge your ideas – that’s how they become polished ideas
·????? Never be afraid to ask others for help
·????? Stay true to your vision and surround yourself with positive people who believe in you
·????? Ensure you have clear USP’s and deliver on them
·????? Always try to help others – you truly do reap what you sow
·????? Always thank people personally
·????? Maintain a balance between home and work (this is not something I have done previously but intend to improve on!)
领英推荐
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What about the Business Innovation South Expo?
Taking the decision not to continue with the expo has been difficult as I poured all my energy and passion into it between 2019 and 2022, but I know I’m making the right decision for myself and my family.
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Established tech and innovation companies across the south can benefit from a dedicated showcase and if anyone in the region would like to speak to me about the potential of taking it over, amalgamating it with an existing event they run or any similar idea, I would love to chat – over 135 companies have exhibited across the 3 expos with the many returning.
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Important thank yous!
?As I turn to my next chapter I would like to say a huge thank you to the many individuals and organisations that helped me deliver the expo between 2019 and 2022.?
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Whilst I was one person doing the lion’s share of the work there are skills and expertise that had to be brought on board as well as people who believed both in myself and the vision for the event who I am truly grateful to.?
Thank you to:
·????? All those who believed in the potential of the event and backed it from year one in 2019, shared posts, talked about it and generally helped raise the profile
·????? Those companies who sponsored key elements of the expo for years 2 and 3 enabling the event to add new elements
·????? Our regions universities who all believed in the expo vision and showcasing the latest tech and innovation as well as how they can collaborate with businesses: University of Southampton; Solent University; Winchester University; Arts University Bournemouth and University of Portsmouth
·????? Tam Goldsmith of The Brand Designer who translated a conversation and few screenshot images into a logo and brand with presence
·????? Kelly West of ONLE Networking (previously of Clean Slate Websites) who worked quickly to create a fantastic website in year 1
·????? Ron Wain and Scott Sinclair of Deep South Media along with Kate Pearce who helped create all articles from that very 1st event in 2019 to 2022’s round-up
·????? Jane Danser of Pure Brand Media for each events’ Expo Podcasts and inciteful interviews with the exhibitors, speakers and sponsors https://www.businessinnovationsouth.com/podcasts-1
·????? Those who helped promote the event especially our membership organisations: James Ford / Solent LEP; Ross McNally and Coral Benham / Hampshire Chamber of Commerce; Nicky Kildunne / FSB; Lesley Bennett and Polly Laughton / the IoD; Leigh-Sara Timberlake / Business South and Laura Bielinski / LOCALiQ and Newsquest
·????? Richard Thompson and Alan Lindstrom of The Business Magazine for their great belief and support with articles ahead of each event
·????? Ed Gould and the #VFS Festival of Innovation who could see how the two events could dovetail and support the other
·????? Annelies James of 22Midnight and Lee Peck of Lee Peck Media who both hosted an expo – also thank you to Annelies for creating such great campaign videos for each event
·????? All the expo Speakers for 2019, 2021 and 2022 from across local government, business and academia covering key business topics and regional updates
·????? All previous 135+ Exhibitors coming from across the Central South region
·????? Karen Brooks of Pellings Business Solutions for the expo admin and the Support team who helped on each event
I hope to see my contacts soon - I'm looking forward to getting out and about!
Article by: Lara Bull
Date published: 29th January 2024
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1 年Congratulations on making the decision to embark on a new chapter in your career! It's inspiring to see someone with your experience and passion for working with people pursue new opportunities.
Turning to a new chapter is always exciting, and it sounds like you're on the brink of something truly remarkable! ?? As you search for your next adventure, remember this quote by Mahatma Gandhi: "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." Your passion for people is a rare and valuable trait. ?? Also, if you're interested in combining your love for making positive impacts and working with a great team, consider our upcoming sponsorship opportunity for the Guinness World Record of Tree Planting, a cause geared towards bettering our planet for future generations: https://bit.ly/TreeGuinnessWorldRecord. Wishing you all the best in your journey! ??
Training & Organisational Development Consultant, helping individuals and organisations to 'Think Well, Feel Well, Do Well + Get Great Results'
1 年It's looking like change will be a big theme for many this year Lara - exciting and dynamic times. Feeling confident that you will have no trouble finding a fabulous opportunity that will re-light your fire and make the most of your many talents and personal qualities. Very best wishes.
The carer for carers Soul Midwife Grief Recovery & Bereavement Specialist & Trainer Advanced Lomi Massage Practitioner Reiki Master
1 年exciting to see what you do decide to do next, and good luck
Uniting Global Entrepreneurs | Founder at NomadEntrepreneur.io | Turning Journeys into Stories of Success ???? Currently, ??♂? Cycling Across the Netherlands!
1 年Wishing you all the best on your new chapter! Exciting times ahead!