An exclusive lunch discussion on skills, investment and what will actually move the dial for growth in the region.
Growth is being talked about everywhere. Turning that into something real, locally, isn’t so straight forward.
This lunchtime panel discussion with Q&A brings together CEOs, MDs and CFOs to look at what is genuinely shaping growth across Leicestershire, and where business leaders can play a more direct role.
Exclusively for mid-market businesses in or connected to the region, this is a chance to step away from day to day demands and have an informed, honest conversation about what feels stuck, what is starting to shift, and where there is realistic scope for growth over the next few years.
This is an invite-only session with people who are dealing with the same issues. No presentations or pitches. Just a useful discussion with peers.
The discussion will focus on:
Skills and talent
Where the real gaps are, not just headline shortages, and what could improve access to skills at different levels of the workforce.
Investment and growth
How businesses are currently approaching funding and expansion, what lenders and investors are looking for, and where opportunities exist for growth that is credible rather than speculative.
Future proofing the local economy
What inclusive growth needs to mean in practice if the region is to attract talent and long-term investment.
Infrastructure and connectivity
How regeneration, transport and community development are influencing business confidence, and where progress feels too slow.
Why attend?
💡Make more grounded growth decisions
💡Strengthen your funding conversations
💡Avoid growth plans that fall over on skills
💡Time hiring and investment with more confidence
💡Reality‑check your thinking with peers
💡 Make new local connections with leaders tackling similar challenges.
Confirmed Panellists
Managing Partner
Deviesh Raikundalia
Deviesh is Managing Partner of Hall Chadwick UK, where he is establishing and growing the firm’s UK restructuring, insolvency, and advisory practice. A chartered accountant and licensed insolvency practitioner, Dev has more than two decades of experience supporting businesses and stakeholders through financial stress and complex situations.
Owner, Saje Impact
Andy Reed OBE
Andy Reed is a former MP for Loughborough (1997–2010) and a senior adviser on economic development, skills and regional growth. He chairs the Leicester and Leicestershire Business and Skills Board and works closely with local partners on investment, workforce readiness and long-term growth across the county. Alongside his regional work, Andy founded Saje Impact and the Sports Think Tank, advising organisations on strategy, policy and engagement with government and investors.
Vice Chairman Midlands Region
Paul Faulkner
Paul Faulkner, the former CEO of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, has recently been appointed as vice chairman of the Midlands for Barclays. Paul is the co-founder of business consultancy Element45 and previously held the CEO positions with Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest football clubs. Barclays say Paul’s appointment reflects the banking giant’s ongoing commitment to growth and expanding its reach within the Midlands.
Board Chair
Kevin Harris MBA FCA
Kevin has been strong advocate of Leicestershire and the wider East Midlands region for many years. He was previously Chair of the Leicester & Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) has worked in the professional services industry at a senior level for more than three decades.
