The race has started for companies to get the chance to showcase their operations in front of the region’s largest business gathering, which will include speeches from Conservative Party grandee Lord Michael Heseltine and John Lewis Managing Director Andy Street.
The Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Group (BCCG) annual dinner and awards take place at the International Convention Centre on Wednesday, April 25, and will feature seven business awards as well as keynote speeches from Lord Heseltine and Mr Street, who also chairs the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).
Up to 1,000 guests, including key decision-makers and influencers, are expected to hear
Lord Heseltine, a cabinet minister in both the Thatcher and Major governments, give support to the Chamber’s “Vote Yes for Birmingham” in the elected mayor campaign.
He was the author of a report for the Conservative party which stated that Britain’s cities needed directly-elected mayors with “very substantial powers”. Lord Heseltine has also said that local mayors should have the power to issue bonds and borrow money.
High-profile business leader Andy Street will also be speaking at the dinner. His words will be particularly important as chair of the LEP and as managing director of John Lewis Partnership, who have announced significant investment in Birmingham with a new store at the refurbished New Street Station.
The awards categories are:
Achievement in International Business
Commitment to People Development
Entrepreneur of the Year
Excellence in Customer Service
Excellence in Innovation
Most Promising New Business
Sustainability
To enter visit www.birmingham-chamber.com/events.
Entry forms are available by clicking on the award name – the rules are included.