Downtown in Business Newcastle hosted an exclusive dinner event on Wednesday as part of their highly regarded, ‘In Conversation with’ Series. Held at Innside By Melia Newcastle from 5:30 – 8:30 pm, the event featured Pam Smith, Chief Executive of Newcastle City Council, as the latest distinguished guest speaker to regail Downtown Members with their fascinating insights!
Pam captivated attendees (hailing from various sectors in the Newcastle City region and beyond) with her insightful talk on the challenges facing growth and government in the Newcastle City region, as well as her vision for the future of the area.
This invite-only event, sponsored by Muse, was a must-attend for anyone working in or with an interest in the Newcastle City region.
James Pitt managing Director for Yorkshire and the North East at Muse said: “It was great to join the conversation with Pam, business leaders, Newcastle College and Newcastle and Northumbria Universities about the region’s strengths and challenges.”
As Chief Executive of Newcastle City Council, Pam has been instrumental in facilitating the transition to a combined authority for the region, paving the way for opportunities and addressing challenges within the city. One of the key topics touched upon at the event was the significance of the appointment of the first CA Mayor and devolved powers in the region. Pam’s extensive experience and leadership position make her uniquely qualified to share valuable insights into the pressing issues affecting the region today.
Throughout her career, Pam has demonstrated a passion for community and neighborhood development. From her role as Chief Executive at Stockport Council to her advocacy for ‘Age Friendly Greater Manchester,’ Pam has consistently worked to improve the lives of residents across the region she is currently representing. Her commitment to securing outstanding schools, excellent jobs, and high-quality homes reflects her dedication to making Newcastle one of the best places in the world to grow up, work, and live.
During this exclusive dinner event, attendees had the opportunity to gain unique insights into the bigger picture happening within the Newcastle Region and the challenges facing those working within it as well as a deeper understanding of the region’s development landscape and the role of government in shaping its future.
Pam’s insights provided attendees with invaluable knowledge about the council’s plans for the future and how various businesses and sectors can contribute to its development. Pam’s emphasis on collaboration and community engagement resonated with the audience, inspiring individuals to consider their role in contributing to positive change in the Newcastle City region.
Pam spoke about some of the challenges to delivering inclusive growth and benefits for all, but highlighted how Newcastle and the North East is well-placed to deliver this.
Pam highlighted just some of the region’s key strengths including; its renewable energy potential; its excellent, strategic location; its unique position at the forefront of Al research and innovation; its world-leading universities and the great quality of life and affordable living it offers residents.
The event also offered attendees the chance to network and connect with influential figures in the Newcastle business world, fostering valuable connections and collaborations.
Downtown’s managing Director Chris McKenna said: “We are incredibly grateful to Pam for joining us to discuss the key issues that are affecting the Newcastle region”
“We’d like to thank her for taking the time to address our members and share her insights and personal experiences working with Newcastle City Council. She has a truly unique and fascinating perspective on where the future of the Newcastle region might be going and it was great to hear about the fantastic work she has been doing to promote growth and bring opportunity and investment to the city, long may it continue!”
Downtown in Business Newcastle continues to lead the way in providing engaging and informative events that spark meaningful dialogue and shape the future of the region. For more information about future events, interested individuals are encouraged to contact beth.mckenna@downtowninbusiness.com
