Alison Gittins - Chief Executive, Durham Business Group
What did you set out to achieve this year?
We set out every year to deliver our important work of championing and supporting North East businesses. The events calendar is planned with a mix of new venues and some old favourites, with an aim to achieve inspiring networking events across the region, bringing business and genuine friendships seamlessly together. We also set out to grow our Office Services clients, our coworking space at Portland House, and to hit the maximum 50 Executive Group members.
Has everything gone according to plan?
In the world of events, plans change but that’s part of the excitement, what keeps me on my toes and results in the best events! From a record turnout at the DBC January Showcase at Ramside Hall, we also celebrated ten amazing years of The Executive Group and grew the Group to capacity. At Durham Office Services it has gone to plan and some, as we smashed our targets with a record number of mailing clients and retained full occupancy at Portland House.
What are you most proud of this year?
Bringing together sixteen member businesses to The Executive Group lunch at HMS Calliope to sign the Armed Forces Covenant, a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces and their families are treated fairly. The occasion was supported by the Ministry of Defence, and up there with when I signed on behalf of Durham Business Group at Catterick Garrison in 2019. To go on to achieve the prestigious Gold Award in 2022 was a huge honour for us as a small not-for-profit business. I’m proud of my team every day, along with the support of our Chairman Graham Soult and Board of Directors, our hard work and dedication has been rewarded, and our 43rd year has certainly been one to remember!
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received this year?
Love what you do, do it with passion, and focus on your strengths and those of your team.
I am incredibly fortunate to work with amazing businesses and a wonderful extended community. This can involve long and late hours, so being advised to take time out is equally as important as being advised to keep going. I believe this is important advice to all business owners – listen to your comrades.
What has been the most enjoyable business event you’ve been to this year?
There truly are too many to mention! It has been an incredible year, the year for our region’s castles, from Belsay to Lumley to The Rising at Raby, Auckland Palace and a mansion at Gibside! Next stop Alnwick Castle, following a magical preview night at Alnwick Garden and Lilidorei festive lights. It still amazes me, after all these years, how there are always new venues to discover.
What have you learnt about yourself this year?
To listen to my intuition, not to take things personally, embrace change and be open to opportunities. It is as important to be busy as it is to know when to take time out for some well-earned R&R. I am incredibly gifted to be surrounded by amazing people and a wealth of knowledge, and I’ve learnt to accept support and enjoy the journey.
Describe 2024 in three words….
Growth, Reward, Grateful.
What are your aims for 2025?
On a personal note I can’t wait to welcome my first grandchild in January and so see many journeys south on the horizon. In the 44th year of DBG, we aim to continue to support and champion businesses, foster collaboration and celebrate success, and of course, have more cracking events lined up!
Any New Year Resolutions?
I hope to revisit padel tennis at True Padel Durham, and to improve to a level where someone may swipe on Playtomic for me to join them in a game – forever the optimist. Live life to the full and carry on cruising!
www.durhambusinessgroup.co.uk