Forum line-up for next month

Business commentator Justin Urquhart Stewart and Jo Fairley, co-founder of Green & Black’s, have been confirmed as keynote speakers at next month’s Entrepreneurs’ Forum conference.

‘Fortune Favours the Brave’ will see over 200 entrepreneurs from across the North East gather at Wynyard Hall on November 7.

Justin, famous for his trademark red braces, is cofounder of Seven Investment Management (7IM) and has been a regular commentator on the markets on BBC 5 Live’s Wake Up To Money.

After becoming the UK’s youngest-ever magazine editor at the age of 23, Jo Fairley began her entrepreneurial journey in 1991 after co-founding Green & Blacks, with £20,000 worth of savings.

She sold the upmarket chocolate brand in 2005, which is now worth an estimated £100m worldwide, but continues to champion its success with new owners Cadburys as well as developing her own portfolio.

Graham Robb, senior partner at Recognition PR, will also host a panel of young North East entrepreneurs who will share their experience of scaling-up their businesses.

Jonathan Lamb, chief executive of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said: “The theme of this conference focuses on remaining true to your beliefs in business and we have secured a truly inspirational line up of speakers who can testify to what is possible when you adopt the true spirit of entrepreneurship. It is an opportunity for them to share their invaluable experience with like-minded businesspeople during what is one of the highlights of the year.”