One of industry’s finest human resources leaders, and Birmingham-born Lesley James CBE, addressed a gathering of top SME’s on the fascinating subject of ‘Leadership’ at the 117th gathering of the British Jewellery & Giftware Federation on Friday 6 June in the prestigious surroundings of the House of Lords.
John Swain, outgoing president, opened proceedings with a hard-hitting speech highlighting the progress and achievements of the federation. It was a year that had seen the Export Service Department sponsor 23 trade fairs and three trade missions and provide Trade Partners UK funding to around 380 companies (which represented over £800,000 of government funding for 2002). With further sponsorship of 11 trade fairs (with full government funding) and five trade missions for 2003.
The BJGF also achieved government funding for two substantial initiatives – a benchmarking study into the export capability of the industries represented by the BJGF and an Industry Briefing Course to better inform Commercial Officers about the industry. John also confirmed that the influence and profile of the BJGF continued to grow, attracting high profile visits to Federation House in Birmingham from numerous political and industry leaders, including the Right Hon Clare Short MP, Robin Miller, group chief executive of EMAP Plc, and Brian Greenwood assistant director of Materials and Engineering Unit at the DTI.
Presentations from other member associations were given by The Giftware Association, The British Jewellers’ Association, and the Surface Engineering Association and the new president, Geoffrey Oakley and vice president, Philippa Allan, were then installed by outgoing president John Swain.