Case Study: Connecting for Success – How Amanda Vine, NEDonBoard Member and Clare Martin, business owner, found strategic synergy at a NEDonBoard networking event, jointly organised with the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator.
Background and Objectives
Amanda, a strategic advisor with a rich background in B2B commercial roles, and Clare, the founder of a dynamic digital marketing agency, attended a joint NEDonBoard NatWest networking event with specific goals in mind. Amanda was looking to engage with founders in need of strategic guidance, while Clare was on the hunt for the right expertise to help form an advisory board for her business.
“I needed an advisor that understood small businesses, particularly in the marketing or digital sector”, Clare Martin.
The meeting point
The initial connection was made serendipitously in the foyer before the event commenced. Amanda, with her deep understanding of agency models and market drivers, found an immediate interest in Clare’s aspirations and challenges. This encounter facilitated a discussion that laid the groundwork for a future partnership. The conversation evolved into an exploratory call post-event, setting the stage for creating Blue Cactus Digital’s first Advisory Board.
Development of the relationship
Over the following 3 months, Amanda provided mentorship and strategic insights that were instrumental in analysing Blue Cactus Digital’s operations and focusing on key business objectives. This initial collaboration led in the establishment of a formal Advisory Board, chaired by Amanda, which aligned with year-end to review business performance and set future business goals and objectives.
Amanda reflects, “It’s extremely rewarding and enjoyable to be part of an Advisory Board guiding Clare on the sustainable growth of her business. The joint NEDonBoard NatWest networking event provides a unique opportunity to meet with founders at the early stages of their business ventures. It gives founders access to seasoned professionals, hopefully with the right blend of skills and experience, who can potentially take on the role of Board advisor to guide and advise them on their businesses.”
Impact and results
The advisory board, composed of three members including Amanda, provided Clare with invaluable guidance. This new strategic framework allowed Clare to enhance her decision-making processes and prioritise key business activities effectively. The board meets quarterly with ad-hoc meetings as and when required, ensuring ongoing support and adaption to new business challenges as they arise.
Clare expresses her satisfaction with the outcomes: “Working with Amanda and forming an advisory board has been transformative for Blue Cactus Digital. The joint NEDonBoard NatWest networking event not only connected me with a mentor but eventually led us to solidify our strategic framework. This has been a game-changer, allowing us to focus our energies more effectively and position ourselves for sustainable growth.”
Conclusion
The NEDonBoard Dragons’ Den style connecting event proved to be a pivotal moment for both Amanda and Clare. It exemplifies how strategic networking, when coupled with a clear vision and the right opportunities, can lead to significant business advancements.
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Related resources
NEDonBoard success story: accessing exclusive advisory board opportunities
Achieving your board objectives thanks to your NEDonBoard membership
