University of Derby event unites the next generation of entrepreneurs

Derby’s next generation of business professionals will have the chance to hear from business leaders at the University of Derby’s Network of Entrepreneurs event, taking place on Wednesday 11 April at the Derby Museum and Art Gallery.

The event is hosted by the University’s College of Business, Law & Social Sciences and is sponsored by local law firm, Flint Bishop LLP. The event provides an opportunity for students, local professionals and academics to network and engage with one another.

Guest speakers this year include Jonathan Wallis, Edward Hollands, and Gavin and Sally Murray, who will all be on hand to share their knowledge and experiences with students as well as other business professionals at the event. 

Jonathan Wallis, who attained a Postgraduate certificate in Management at the University, is President of the Midlands Federation of Museums and Art Galleries and Trustee of the WW Winter Collection Trust, the world’s oldest photographic studio. Jonathan is Derby’s Head of Museums and has led the transformational process from local authority provisions to charitable trust.

Edward Hollands received a first-class honours degree in Business Studies at the University and now owns DrivenMedia, a company working with hauliers, advertisers and marketing agencies to use the sides of lorries as advertising space. Ed appeared on Dragon’s Den and secured a £30,000 investment from Dragon Jenny Campbell in exchange for a 20 percent share in his company.

Gavin and Sally Murray are the founders of Derby-based ethical ice-cream company Just-Ice, a social enterprise which creates employment opportunities for survivors of human trafficking, aiming to give them a future. The company’s profits go to secure the rescue and rehabilitation of child soldiers around the globe.

Bev Crighton, Employment Engagement Lead at the College of Business, Law & Social Sciences said: “We are really looking forward to our Network of Entrepreneurs event. Jonathan, Edward, Gavin and Sally all have great tales to tell and the Museum and Art Gallery provides an inspirational backdrop for the entrepreneurs and students to meet, talk and exchange their stories.”

Andrew Cochrane, Chairman & Senior Partner at Flint Bishop Solicitors, added: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the Network of Entrepreneurs event again with the University. Over the years, this event has helped students, local business professionals and academics to engage with one another and enjoy the unique insights shared by our fantastic guest speakers.”

During the evening, a University of Derby photography student will be taking pictures as part of their internship with Avril Photography.