With July came the summer instalment of the ever-popular Wolverhampton-based professional networking lunch, Black Country Diners Club.
On this occasion John Phillips, former West Midlands regional director of the Institute of Directors (IoD), was welcomed as the distinguished guest speaker.
Most networking events tend to tail off during the summer months of July and August, as many of us flock to beaches for sunshine and relaxation, but BCDC was on top form with bookings from over 70 people who travelled from all corners of the West Midlands region.
The successful format of BCDC remained intact, with guests being welcomed into the event with 45 minutes of networking with fellow delegates, before being sat down for a two-course lunch. The relaxed seating plan provides delegates with the opportunity to cement relationships with new contacts over lunch. An insightful talk from a guest speaker and prize draw
John Phillips MBE, guest speaker, was the first full time member of staff to be employed outside of London by the Institute of Directors (IoD) in 1993, and continued to represent the organisation for over 23 years until his retirement in April 2016.
John spoke to the audience about his lengthy career with the IoD and how he got to the position of being regional director. Aside from this, John runs a successful mentoring scheme supporting undergraduates, in partnership with the University of Wolverhampton, and was explaining the benefit it has on developing the employability skills of students.
Although students receive an excellent education and have the platform to understand business theory, John stressed the importance of ‘soft’ skills, including communication, teamwork, time management, leadership and confidence building. These are the areas which the mentoring programme aims to improve.
For more information about volunteering to be a mentor with John and the University of Wolverhampton please see the attached form.
We have two Diners Clubs coming up in the next few months, including Worcestershire Diners Club on Tuesday 20th September 2016 and Black Country Diners Club, which will be back on Tuesday 25th October 2016.
To ensure your details are on our event mailing list, please send a quick email to Events@bcrs.org.uk.
