Local firms learn from the best (From Western Telegraph)

Local firms learn from the best

The Institute of Directors (IOD) has shared its secrets of strategicsuccess with local businesses. The IOD is one of the UKs top business organisations and the event was organised by Women in Enterprise and sponsored by the WDA and ELWa.

The IOD conference and training day was designed to help businesses plan for a strategic future and so build a healthier and more profitable business. The facilitator, Jean Pousson is managing partner of Jean Pousson and Associates, a specialised consultancy practice he set up in 1994. They provide banking, finance and strategy training to an international client base.

Space on the day was limited to 50 businesses but every one took away a greater understanding of what theyve got to do to make their business stronger.

Andrew Davies, of Seconds Ahead, said: It was a brilliant day. Usually if you want this level of expertise you pay extortionate rates and travel to Cardiff or London. This was on our doorstep and was a whole day of high level thinking and input.

It was the best local business event Ive ever been to. Every business there was focused, interested in developing and it made me realise how many strong businesses form our economy in West Wales.

The event was so successful that the organisers are looking at developing a long-term partnership to bring more training to the area. Tom Morgan, of the IOD, said: This conference is a further indication of the excellent work that is being undertaken by Women in Enterprise in bringing the world class expertise of the Institute of Directors to the people of West Wales. Their efforts continue to make a big difference in helping to transform and improve the economy of the area.

They need to be encouraged and supported by those in charge of the Objective One structural funds. Women in Enterprise are exemplars of the way private organisation can impact on the delivery of economic growth. We at the Institute of Directors are very pleased to be a member of the partnership and look forward to continue working closely with businesses in the area.

The sponsorship from the WDA and ELWa was instrumental in making this event possible.