Northumbrian Water Group joins Future Leaders programme as partners look ahead to 2027

The programme brings together early-career professionals from businesses across the North East to build the skills, confidence and connections that will support them as they progress in their careers.

Northumbrian Water Group will now work alongside the Chamber and Gateshead College to help shape and coordinate the next programme, bringing an important business perspective and its expertise in experiential learning to the programme’s future development.

Its involvement was announced at a special event (24 September), bringing together participants from the first pilot Future Leaders cohort to celebrate their progress, reconnect with peers and reflect on what they have gained from the programme.

Erin Price, head of academy at Northumbrian Water Group, said: “At Northumbrian Water Group, we believe that investing in people is investing in the future of our region.

“We’re proud to sponsor the Chamber’s Future Leaders programme, helping to develop the skills, confidence and connections that will enable the next generation of leaders to make a positive impact across the North East.”

Northumbrian Water Group has developed a strong focus on hands-on and collaborative learning through initiatives including its Innovation Festival and Young Citizens Work Experience Festival, which bring people together to develop skills through practical challenges, collaboration and problem solving.

John McCabe, chief executive at the North East Chamber of Commerce, said: “Future Leaders is about giving people at an early stage in their careers the opportunity to build the skills and confidence that will help them thrive in the workplace and contribute to the success of North East businesses.

“The strength of the programme comes from collaboration. Gateshead College brings expertise in learning and development, the Chamber connects participants with businesses and peers from across the region, and Northumbrian Water Group will add valuable employer insight and experience as we develop the programme further.

“We’re excited about what we can achieve together as we look towards the next Future Leaders programme.”

Nadine Hudspeth, director of brand and learner experience at Gateshead College, said: “For me, Future Leaders has always been about helping people find their voice. Participants have developed confidence, built lasting connections and recognised the value they bring, with many already looking for opportunities to give back by supporting and mentoring young people.

“It’s also important to recognise employers who have backed their future leaders and given them the time and opportunity to be part of the programme. When businesses invest in emerging talent, everyone benefits.”

Future Leaders combines professional development with opportunities to build meaningful relationships with peers from across the North East business community.

This year’s programme has explored topics including Personal Brand, Business Etiquette and First Impressions, Peer Mentoring, Strategic Networking, Public Speaking and Emotional Intelligence for Future Leaders and Authentic Connections.

Alongside its networking sessions, participants have taken part in interactive workshops delivered by Gateshead College, allowing them to explore each theme in greater depth and put their learning into practice.

Meg Hardiman, development & marketing officer at Community Foundation North East, was a member of the first cohort.

She said: “I’ve gained so much from the programme. I’m developing valuable skills in areas such as mentorship, handling difficult conversations and building meaningful professional relationships, all within a safe environment alongside my peers.”

Jess Davey, digital marketing executive at Phonetic Digital, also enrolled on the Future Leaders programme and her employer is delighted at the benefits it has brought to Jess and the business.

Steven Parker, managing director at Phonetic Digital, said: “We see the Future Leaders Programme as a real investment in Jess and our business, helping her build the confidence and skills that are essential in today’s rapidly changing workplace. The programme gives future leaders practical support to pursue their career ambitions, while bringing together a strong cohort of professionals and laying the foundations for an alumni network that can support them throughout their careers. Thanks to the Chamber and Gateshead College for making this happen.”

The programme gives participants opportunities to strengthen their communication, networking and leadership skills, develop confidence and professional presence, explore emotional intelligence and build lasting peer connections.

The Chamber, Gateshead College and Northumbrian Water Group will now work together on the next stage of Future Leaders, using the experience and feedback from the programme so far to help shape its continued development.

For further information, please contact Chamber policy manager Jessie Kelly-Baxter at [email protected].