Adding value for members through increased business opportunities will be the theme for the year ahead according to new chairman, Chris Baguley, speaking at today’s AGM.

Chris spoke to a room full of members at the Midland Hotel which included newly elected board members Paul Lupton (Deloitte), Chris Wilson (Co-operative Bank), Paul Johnson (Cobbetts LLP), Richard Smith (Zurich), Sara Baines (Pannone LLP) and Miles Rothbury (Barclays). 

In his incoming speech, Chris merited the excellent work of former chairman, Sue Webster, during a challenging economic climate.  He also outlined his plans for the organisation over the next 12 months, which reinforces pro.manchester’s aim to bring business to members.

He wants to achieve this by developing a robust business development programme which includes headline initiative, CORE – a Corporate Outreach Enterprise.

CORE aims to raise the profile of the financial and professional sector regionally, nationally and internationally.
This will be supported by a comprehensive conference programme which will build upon the links forged with influential organisations such as the British Venture Capital Association (BVCA), Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), Business Link and the Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

Speaking of his key objectives as chairman, Chris said:“The sole purpose of my plans for the next year is to enhance the interests of pro.manchester members.  I want to get pro.manchester back to its roots with the objective of bringing more business to members.

“pro.manchester is a very powerful organisation when used properly and effectively. It has a very important role to play in Greater Manchester and the North West.  My year in office will stress this as we develop the Corporate Outreach Enterprise – CORE.”