Jackie’s Networking Adventures

Best of British – Cheltenham Special

The first Best of British event of 2022 was the Pre Cheltenham Lunch at Malmaison.

Sussex Business Times is the proud media partner of all Best of British events this year and we were, obviously, not going to miss it.

Being a keen horseracing fan, I was super excited – especially as during the previous year the event was postponed. Hence, it was back with a bang and the guest speaker, the legendary jockey Mick Fitzgerald, didn’t disappoint! The guests were also treated to another jockey and  Sky Sports racing presenter Hayley Moore, who sat alongside Mick and Luke Tarr (Star Sports) to run through the card for Cheltenham Races that week. 

Some fantastic insights were given for those attending from the racing festival. I can’t deny some of their tips really did work in my favour and, as always, the food and service delivered by Malmaison was fantastic.

I loved that Director Ryan Heal also organised a little after party following this event at the casino where my I tried my luck which was followed by eight winners over the Cheltenham Festival.

Fundraising at this event was in aid of Take The Reins, with a speech from their CEO, Deborah Hay,Take The Reins is a sports-based not-for-profit organisation working primarily through and in the racing industry to support and deliver positive outcomes for young people and communities.  The event was proudly sponsored by KTDA

Best of British – Tony Cascarino at Hotel Du Vin – St Patrick’s Day special

A special Best of British event was held to celebrate St. Patrick’s day. The event opened with a Guinness on arrival followed by a full Irish themed programme.

The guest speaker was Tony Cascarino, a former professional footballer who played as a striker for various English and French clubs as well as internationally for the Republic of Ireland with whom he completed UEFA Euro 1988 and two world cups in 1990 and 1994.

The event was sponsored by Rivervale, a vehicle leasing specialist based in Portslade, delivering a sterling car, van and minibus leasing service since 2001.

The beneficiary was one I’ve worked closely with myself and is very deserving – The Love Local Jobs Foundation. The Foundation leverages the positivity, influence and incredible inspiration of local businesses and influential local people to engage and inspire young people to become the best possible version of themselves they can be.

The lunch to follow was Irish potato cake and smoked salmon, Irish Stew (what else would it be on Paddy’s day?) and a Guinness cupcake!

The rest of the day included the classic game of Heads & Tails, a silent auction, a live auction and a Q&A with Tony Cascarinio. 

With more amazing Best of British Events coming soon at Brighton, London, Eastbourne, Gatwick and Goodwood be sure to book your space today too avoid missing out. 

https://bestofbritish.org.uk/public-events/ or contact ryan.heal@bestofbritish.org.uk

Boundary Club – Hove Cricket Ground

I was lucky enough to attend the first Boundary Club meeting of 2022 at Hove Cricket Ground this week alongside 100 other businesspeople from across the South East.

It was great to see some familiar but also new faces.

Standing in for Sam Thomas, I found myself at a table of all men, which was slightly daunting to begin with as I didn’t know a single one, but I can honestly say I didn’t give it a second thought after five minutes. They made me feel so at ease and included from the start.

As well as enjoying a three-course meal, afternoon tea and the opportunity to watch the game of cricket taking place in the background, guests heard from Sussex Cricket personnel regarding the upcoming season – as well as being let into a few insider secrets.

If you’ve not experienced the Boundary Club, I highly recommend it. A good mix of businesspeople to connect with. 

County Business Clubs – Member Meetup – Hove

Another great night for County Business Club members. This event sold out in just over two weeks and saw a good mix of existing members and guests. Bringing 40 people together from two great communities with our collaborative partners Freedom Works, this event was held at the Freedom Works Creative hub in Hove.

Our member meetups have been designed to give networking a less formal approach with myself and Sam on hand before and during the event to help make those introductions for people and to ensure connections are made during the evening. The evening consists of two hours of informal networking over a glass of wine and some light nibbles.

Places are limited for our Worthing meetup and we except it to sell out early. You can book you space here:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/freedom-works-collaboration-worthing-tickets-314542313527

For our CBC premium members, these events are included free as part of your membership benefits. Membership is only £14.99 a month so, if you would like to join or upgrade ahead of booking your space for Thursday 28th April, please drop me an email and I will happily take you through all the benefits of becoming a premium member.