New focus, face and gist for business advisory body

After a year-long review designed to strengthen “its position in the business advisory sector” Business South West is set to re-launch as BSW Connect.

Chairwoman Dr Robyn Morris hinted at the consolidated approach during her opening speech at the recent South West Business Excellence Awards.

She said an “era of major business disruption” led to the review, but the organisation would continue to conduct the awards as it had done for the past 25 years.

“Recognising, rewarding and celebrating the contributions of the small and medium businesses in our region is extremely important,” she said.

“We stay highly committed to ensuring that the South West Business Excellence Awards remain a highlight of the business community calendar.”

Dr Morris said the organisation will be guided by three key pillars as it continues to focus on “building star businesses” by connecting, collaborating and celebrating.

As part of the new focus Merinda Smith has been employed as the organisation’s new business development manager.

She said she will use her experience working internationally to help businesses in the region thrive.

“There is so much that we’ve got to offer here and I would like to see businesses and people prosper,” she said.

“I only moved to the region two and half years ago so I’m coming into this role with experience I’ve gathered across the world having worked in the UK, Melbourne and Perth.

“I really want to help people here do business in a more global sense to help the region.”