Inspiration from business leaders' panel

James Crow

Inspirational business leaders will share their knowledge with a Whanganui audience tomorrow.

The Biz series is hosted by Yellow and tomorrow's free event will be staged from 4-7pm at Kingsgate Hotel in Victoria Ave.

The speaking panel includes James Crow, co-founder of Little Island Creamery, Q-West Boat Builders managing director Myles Fothergill, and Ben Pearce, a Whanganui School of Design graduate who is now head of marketing for David Trubridge Ltd, a lighting and furniture brand.

Set to be a $5 million company this year, Little Island Creamery was built around a combined passion for business success but, more importantly, quality family time for Mr Crow and friend and business partner Tom Holden.

"Tommy and I have always wanted to put our families first, so we wanted our job to fit around us. We call it 'economising your life' because we want to get the best out of the work we do, but not while sacrificing the family or living life in order to make it happen," he said.

Since 2010 the two-man band has doubled annual growth each year and is exploring export options to Australia, Asia and America.

Ben Pearce started as a design graduate but now heads the marketing division of David Trubridge Ltd, and using his creativity he has helped shaped the company.

The business has seen significant change since Mr Pearce joined it almost 10 years ago, with many of their customers now based overseas.

He will speak about how he has led the brand through its evolution and the importance of remaining creative in business.

Mr Fothergill, who leads the Q-West team, has been in the marine industry for 40 years with experience in design, construction, boat building and commercial fishing.

Employing 60 full-time staff and 15 sub-contractors, Q-West is a significant employer in Whanganui and contributor to NZ's export economy.

Michael Boersen, chief executive of Yellow, said The Biz was an important networking event for local businesses.

"The connections we make in business are valuable, so it's important for Yellow to help build those local connections, especially in a country of small businesses."

Mr Boersen said those attending The Biz sessions always came away with helpful tips, advice and new local support networks.

For more information and to reserve a place tomorrow, go to: www.bizevents.co.nz