A new peer-learning group for CEOs and business leaders in Reading and the wider Thames Valley launched last week, and it owes its existence to a Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce networking event.
Executive coaches Hilary Rowland and Richard Catt met for the first time at a Chamber networking event earlier this year. They hit it off straight away and quickly discovered they had something unexpected in common: both were in the process of building a peer group for local business leaders. Rather than compete, they decided to join forces. The result is a new CEO group that held its first meeting last week.
“It’s a great example of what Chamber events are for,” said Hilary Rowland. “You never know who you’ll meet and in our case, one conversation turned into a genuine partnership.”
The group’s first meeting was a resounding success. Members heard from a guest speaker on AI for business growth, in a highly practical session that gave everyone actionable ideas to take back to their businesses. In the afternoon, members had the opportunity to bring real, difficult business issues to the table and left with fresh insights and workable solutions the very same day.
The aim of the group is simple: to enable business leaders to support and learn from each other, take their businesses to the next level, and grow in confidence as leaders. Meetings combine expert speakers with structured peer discussion, giving members both practical knowledge and a trusted sounding board of fellow CEOs.
“Running a business can be lonely at the top,” added Richard Catt. “This group gives leaders a confidential space to work through the challenges they can’t always discuss anywhere else.”
