New Entrepreneurs' Forum Chairman announced

NEW ENTREPRENEURS' FORUM CHAIRMAN ANNOUNCED

Following three years of growth under the leadership of Paul Walker (who himself followed the tough act of Sir Peter Vardy) we're delighted to announce the appointment of Tom Maxfield as the new Entrepreneurs' Forum Chairman.

Tom has been actively involved with the Forum, the inspiration behind the If we can you can campaign, as a board member since the very beginning and takes on the role at a time when entrepreneurs continue to buck the trends.

Barclays head of research into SMEs is on record as saying that the contraction in start-up activity that they would have expected, given the scale of economic downturn, has not materialised going into the New Year.

In his address yesterday evening at another packed Forum event (clearly a day for landmark events on both sides of the Atlantic) Tom summed up the positive mood of the collected members:‘The entrepreneurial spirit that brings all of us together is in rude health and because entrepreneurs regard failure as nothing more than a temporary setback we expect the Forum to play an increasingly active role as economic conditions worsen.

‘There's lots of anecdotal evidence to suggest that as bright and successful people are made redundant they will seize the opportunity to do what they probably should have done years ago - turn that brilliant idea into a business and work for themselves instead of someone else.

‘The Entrepreneurs' Forum occupies a privileged position and we are uniquely placed to present the collective views of our membership in a timely fashion and based on what is actually happening in the marketplace. This puts us in a strong position to represent the region's business community and even, dare I suggest, influencing government policy in the North East.

‘So if we ask you for your view on an issue or topic that affects the business community let's have a prompt response - don't be shy in telling us what you think.

‘Let's ensure that in these uncertain times we are all available to contribute, to offer help and advice freely and to share our experiences for the benefit of others; so that collectively we ensure that the entrepreneurial spirit in the North East continues to shine brightly.

‘Above all it's important that we understand the needs and the desires of members so that we can provide a programme that reflects what you expect to get out of being a member.

‘As Chairman, I expect to be accessible so feel free to praise, to whinge, to observe, to comment or to make suggestions. Above all, don't be passive. I want to ensure that the Forum continues to be passionate about business, that we continue to connect on a very personal level and that everything we do is relevant to your needs.'

We look forward to working with Tom over the coming months on exciting new developments for the Forum and If we can, you can.

You can read Tom's inspirational story by clicking www.ifwecanyoucan.co.uk/entrepreneurs/tom-maxfield