A Leek business networking group is celebrating its third birthday with a strengthened connection with a further education college.
Fox Networking, which meets fortnightly at the Foxlowe Arts Centre in Leek, will be supported by Buxton & Leek College in a tie-in advantageous to both parties.
PR and marketing consultant Mark Brammar, who owns Fox Networking said: “I am delighted to receive this support from Buxton & Leek College and looking forward to strengthening our relationship. They are a major provider of talent into our local workforce and offer a fantastic range of courses and apprenticeships.
“A shortage of skilled workers is a major factor hindering economic growth now and any link between education and business will help to alleviate this.”
Fox Networking was established in 2020 from the ashes of its predecessor, Gone Fishing 4 business which was started by Leek accountant Jed Eatough. Jed is still a regular attendee at Fox Networking, which meets at 8am on alternate Fridays and is open to anyone in business.
Gareth Hughes, head of recruitment & marketing at Buxton & Leek College said: “I am from Leek and have worked in further and higher education all over Staffordshire for almost 20 years prior to my appointment at Buxton & Leek College last year.
“I am really pleased to be working in my hometown and to be a part of Fox Networking which is a very welcoming and proactive group.
“Working with the businesses in Fox Networking fulfils our goal of ensuring business and education collaborate to create jobs and wealth. When I met local businesspeople at the meetings, I sensed a real opportunity for us all to work together to close the skills gap in Staffordshire Moorlands.”
