On Tuesday 15 March 2022, Sir George Buckley, ex-chairman of 3M and namesake of the 3M Buckley Innovation Centre (3M BIC), visited the 3M BIC as the key speaker of the Leeds City Region (LCR) Supply Chain Programme business workshop.
The event was attended by several local businesses, including Visual Systems, Witt and Son, AUS, Love Handmade Cakes, Adventoris, Puffin Packaging and many more. Steve Gregory, head of regional engagement at the University of Huddersfield and director of the LCR Supply Chain Programme, kickstarted the event with an overview of the Supply Chain Programme, followed by a presentation from Sir George Buckley, who shared his stories and experiences of business development and opinions on current business issues. One attendee said:
I Really enjoyed it, there were some great points made, and it was good to hear from someone who has been there, done it
A Q&A session gave delegates the opportunity to discuss hot topics with Sir George Buckley and receive advice and support. Some questions investigated the uncertainties around Brexit, COVID and the Ukrainian conflict, and how businesses can navigate through this landscape. Others discussed and received advice on scaling a business, preparing for, and planning to deliver growth phases.
The event culminated in a short networking and feedback session led by the advisors from the Supply Chain programme, along with a buffet lunch.
A guest at the event explained:
I like the fact that the Supply Chain Programme is an Independent knowledge source, the advisors are not ‘selling’ they are advising, which keeps them different and honest. Plus, it’s great to have a business support team based at the University – we have access to the teams experience, they are better networked regarding other support available, and have the fantastic links to the University.
Prior to the event, the LCR Supply Chain Programme team had the opportunity to meet Sir George Buckley, present an overview of the programme and show examples of the wonderful work they are doing, supporting manufacturing businesses across the region.
A local business added:
Thanks for the invite. Sir George was great and leaves me with a number of things to follow up on within our business.
