Hosted recently at The Roundhouse, the event brought together representatives from East Midlands Chamber and a diverse range of external employers, giving students the opportunity to explore how businesses grow—from an initial idea through to marketing, branding and sales.
Real‑world learning from regional business leaders
Throughout the session, students examined key elements of starting and scaling a business, including:
- Identifying and understanding target customers
- The roles of different business functions
- How innovation and new technologies such as AI are transforming industry
Speakers represented a wide range of organisations and sectors, providing students with varied perspectives on entrepreneurship, innovation and the future of work.
Guest speakers included:
- Lisa Baggott, East Midlands Chamber
- Neil McClCluskey, Innovate UK
- Ian Pownall, Juggling Octopus – Business Support & Consultancy
- Chris Green, Pretty Decent
- Martin Broadhurst FRSA
- Stephen Phillips, East Midlands Chamber
- Andrew Bunn, East Midlands Chamber
Bridging the gap between education and employment
Lisa Baggott, Business Advisor for East Midlands Chamber, emphasised the importance of connecting learners with local employers.
Lisa said: “It was fantastic to see such enthusiasm and curiosity from the students. Events like this are incredibly important because they help bridge the gap between education and the real business world.
“By hearing directly from people working in different sectors, students gain a clearer understanding of the opportunities available to them and the skills they will need to succeed.”
Her message was echoed throughout the event, which encouraged students to consider the practical skills and attributes needed in modern business environments.
Understanding sales, relationships and real-world business practice
Ian Pownall, Head of Connections at Juggling Octopus, delivered a focused session on the importance of sales and relationship‑building in business success.
Ian said: “Sales is often misunderstood, but at its heart it is about solving problems and building genuine relationships.
“I wanted students to see that business success is not just about having a great idea, it is about understanding people, communicating value and having the confidence to take that idea to market.”
Students welcomed the opportunity to hear these insights from professionals who work within the business landscape every day.
Student and staff reflections
Harvey, a Level 3 Business Studies student, said the event helped make the connection between classroom learning and the realities of business:
Harvey said: “It was really insightful hearing from people who are actually working in business. It helped me understand what the real world of business looks like and how different areas like marketing, innovation and sales all connect together.
“It has definitely given me a better idea of the kinds of careers and opportunities that are out there”
Lorna Edwards, Curriculum Manager at Derby College Group, highlighted the significance of real‑world engagement:
Lorna said: “Opportunities like this allow our students to hear directly from industry professionals and understand how the skills they are developing through their studies translate into the real business world.
“It helps bring their learning to life and inspires them to think about the wide range of career paths available.”
Find Out more about studying business at Derby College Group
The Insight into Business event forms part of Derby College Group’s ongoing commitment to strengthening employer partnerships and providing high‑quality, career‑focused learning experiences.
Browse our full range of Business courses.
