A Stoke-on-Trent born Ex-SAS Sergeant Major and star of Channel 4’s ‘SAS: Who Dares Wins’ has been confirmed as the keynote speaker for Let’s Do Business 2026.
Melvyn Downes will take to the stage at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Thursday, 8 October to share his experiences on leadership, resilience and the mindset it takes to succeed under pressure.
One of the first British-born Black men to join the elite SAS regiment, Melvyn also made history as the first Black member of the Directing Staff on SAS: Who Dares Wins. He recently released his debut book, Unbreakable: The Trailblazing SAS Soldier Who Never Backed Down.
Delegate tickets are free and available now via the Staffordshire Chambers website.
Stuart Elford, Chief Executive of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “Melvyn’s story is extraordinary. From growing up in Stoke-on-Trent to serving with the world’s most elite special forces, his journey is one of resilience, determination and genuine leadership.
“I can’t wait to hear what he has to share with our business community.”
Melvyn signed up to the British Army at just 16 and went on to serve in the Gulf War, three tours of Northern Ireland and secret operations across more than 50 countries.
In 1994, he was selected for the Special Air Service on his first attempt, becoming one of the first British-born Black men to join the elite regiment.
Let’s Do Business broke attendance records in 2025, and organisers are expecting this year’s event to be bigger still.
Delegate tickets are free and available on a first come, first served basis. To book your place, please click here.
Businesses looking to showcase their services to over 1,000 local delegates can book one of the few remaining stands here.
