Friday Footnote # 149

Each week we share loads of content amongst Team ION and with our network. Content that inspires us, which we find helpful, or just makes us smile. We thought we would start sharing these insights every Friday. Welcome to Friday Footnote.

Wales Tech Week

On Tuesday this week Adam attended Wales Tech Week at ICC Wales. Along with colleagues from Swansea University, we were sharing how the university (and ION) are collaborating, and how they can collaborate in the future, with Welsh businesses. 

It was great to catch up with so many of our network, as well as attend a number of really insightful panel discussions covering Smart Towns, circular economy and the role of technology in creating meaningful workplaces.

What does it mean to be a 'purposeful' business?

As part of the Swansea University Festival of Social Sciences we are hosting a roundtable discussion on what it means to be a “purposeful” business – balancing profit, people and planet.

We are delighted to invite you to join us on November 15th from 5pm -7pm at Urban Foundry HQ to share your insights and views on this important topic. This is an opportunity for ideas to be shared between a range of organisations and individuals.

This event is part of an ongoing research project at Swansea University. Opportunities will be available for networking over refreshments. Please sign up via this link so we can collect any requirements. 

Inspiration

• Here's how to bounce back from failure (World Economic Forum)
• Challenging economic conditions are putting global innovation growth at risk (Business Live)  
• 3 ways to better connect with your co-workers (TED)
• How to handle stress in the moment (Harvard Business Review) 
• 5 steps to build and sustain diversity in your organisation (MIT Sloan Management Review)
• New fly-through video showcases landmark Swansea office scheme (Wales 247)

Open up new opportunities by implementing Circular Economy principles 

Introducing circular economy principles into your business offers a range of reasons that can positively impact your bottom line, brand reputation, and long-term sustainability. Here's why you should consider adopting circular economy principles; Cost Savings, Competitive Advantage, Innovation Opportunities, Regulatory Compliance, Supply Chain Resilience. 

Transitioning to a circular economy requires a shift in mindset and business strategies with increased circular economy knowledge and innovation skills. However, the long-term benefits in terms of sustainability, cost savings, and business growth can be substantial, making it a worthwhile endeavour for forward-thinking businesses.

The CEIC programme, made up of Cardiff Metropolitan University in partnership with Swansea University and third sector and industry partners, are running a fully funded programme to support businesses to develop their circular economy understanding and innovation plans to support clean growth and contribute to Welsh Government’s ‘Net Zero Wales’ ambitions.

There is a further Insight event taking place on Wednesday October 25th and you can sign up here. 

To express an interest in the fully-funded 6 month programme starting in late October 2023 visit their website.

Fancy winning two Hospitality Tickets to a Swansea City game?

Our friends at Swansea University LINC, a powerful support network that enables individuals to connect with each other, find out about funding and support and access our resources and expertise to support organisational growth, are giving you the opoportunity to be in with the chance of winning TWO Hospitality Tickets to a Swansea City AFC Game (with Premium Seating, 3-course meal pre-match drinks & much more) or a pair of match-day tickets for TWO runners up. 

How to Enter:

• Sign in or create a profile on the Swansea University LINC platform
• Find the ‘Win a prize’ event listing for more details

Become an extraordinary leader with ION

For over 11 years we have supported leaders at all levels to become extraordinary leaders. Whether you are just starting your leadership journey, or want to freshen up your skills and learn how best to implement the latest thinking, strategies and best practice into your business, we are here to help. 

Get in touch with Adam on ionleadership@swansea.ac.uk to arrange a chat to find out how we can work with you to develop extraordinary leaders in your organisation.

#FridayFootnote will be taking a short break next week, but we will be back in a few weeks time.  

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