A leadership programme, created specifically to
help SMEs build resilience and manage the impact of Covid-19, is set to help
more than 130 businesses across the North East and Cumbria to recover.
With a small number of places remaining for this year, the first
cohort completed the Small Business Leadership Programme (SBLP) earlier this month.
More than 90% of participants said that the Programme had helped them to
develop strategic leadership skills, respond to the impact of Covid-19 and plan
for future growth.
Supported by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial
Strategy, the SBLP
is a free, 10-week training programme for senior leaders in SMEs. It covers a range of practical topics and is delivered
online by small business experts – including entrepreneurs, business
leaders and academics – from Newcastle Business School at Northumbria
University.
The first group to complete the programme included businesses from a diverse mix of sectors –
from manufacturing, engineering and bio science to
design, events, IT and dentistry.
Speaking about his experience on the Programme, David Lovenbury,
Commercial Director at Newcastle-based brand and creative agency JUMP, said:
“I’d urge anyone running or helping to run an SME to get involved. Regretfully
I didn’t study beyond my first degree and this has felt a little like a stealth
or micro MBA; it has been really challenging, and also a lot of fun.”
Donna Wilson, Commercial Manager at TaperedPlus, a Stockton-based
manufacturing business specialising in flat roof design and building services,
also completed the Programme this year; Donna said: “It’s given me the right
tools and a structured plan to help us recover from Covid-19. We’ll be
continuing to take forward these new models and ways of working as they’re
undoubtedly making our business stronger.”
With eight, 90-minute webinars, alongside independent and
peer-to-peer learning, the programme is designed to support and fit in with business
delivery. 100% of participants from the first cohort agreed that the Programme
was comfortably manageable alongside their day-to-day workload. Over 90% also
said that they had strengthened their business network as a result of taking
part.
Dr Hannah Hesselgreaves, who is co-leading the programme alongside
Dr Matthew Sutherland at Newcastle Business School, said: “With the roll out of the Covid-19 vaccine
underway and the glimmer of a more positive year ahead, we’re continuing to
offer professional development, networking and support for SME leaders looking
to refocus and rebuild.
“We’re
delighted to have more than 130 business signed up already and whilst there is
still time to register, there are just a small number of free spaces remaining
for dates in the New Year. If you run or lead a small business and would
benefit from new knowledge, skills, support and networks, I’d encourage you to
sign up straight away and join us.”
Justin Turner, Entrepreneur and Director of digital accountancy
business Orange Umbrella, is part of the Small Business Leadership Programme
delivery team; Justin added: “I can’t speak highly enough about what the
Programme can do for a business, whether they are struggling or successful – it
is full of tools to help. It’s sometimes hard as a business owner to open up
about your worries and concerns. Business coaches are an expensive resource
that many, especially during a financial downturn, just can’t afford. This
programme offers invaluable support by bringing together the knowledge from
universities and experience from business owners who are specialists in their
field.”
To find out more about the Programme, visit
the Northumbria University website here -
or to secure a free place within the remaining
January cohorts, visit the Small Business Charter website:
The Small
Business Leadership Programme is being delivered across the country by a
consortium of business schools accredited by the Small Business Charter (SBC). Newcastle Business School at
Northumbria University was accredited in 2015; the national accreditation
recognises business schools that excel in supporting SMEs and the local
economy.
ENDS
