The latest episode of the Chamber’s podcast The One for Business is out now and looks at the next generation of East Midlands business talent.
Generation Next Chair Preethi Kang; Champion Blu Hardy and Lead Lucy Robinson address barriers young people face when advancing their career and how workplaces benefit from 18-40s insight.
CLICK HERE TO PLAY, DOWNLOAD AND SHARE THE LATEST EPISODE
UK data in 2026 revealed more than a million under 24’s are classified as NEET – Not in Education, Employment or Training – while the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey’s regional findings have consistently shown that 6 out 10 East Midlands employers have had difficulty finding suitable candidates to meet the requirements of roles.
Generation Next is a Chamber network that aims to empower, inspire and equip young professionals aged 18-40 in the East Midlands with skills, confidence and support to be the leaders and entrepreneurs of tomorrow.
In this episode of The One for Business, Generation Next Lead Lucy Robinson, Chair Preethi Kang and Champion Blu Hardy explore policy approaches needed to address the skills gap; look at ways to improve employment and career progression opportunities for young people and highlight the benefits of shared peer to peer experience and shared best practice from the Generation Next network.
PREVIOUS EPISODES
Episode 1 – Exclusive Preview
Get to know the man behind Policy and Insight. We meet the Chamber’s Rick Blackmore and get an overview of what’s in store and the themes likely to be covered as The One for Business podcast unfolds.
This short introductory episode is a great place to learn more about the podcast and the direction it will take.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO EPISODE 1
Episode 2 – Women who mean business
An episode not to be missed – as Chamber network Enterprising Women approaches a huge milestone – its 30th anniversary, in 2027 – we get to know its founders Eileen Perry MBE DL and Jean Mountain.
Recorded backstage at Derby’s Vaillant Live, following the inspirational 2026 International Women’s Day Conference, Eileen Perry and Jean Mountain tell us what business means to them.
Their journey to leadership will draw you in, as we hear their remarkable story, overcoming barriers to becoming highly influential in championing women in business.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO EPISODE 2
Episode 3 – AI, Actually: Progress your digital story
Digital Planning founders James Ferraby and Mark Underwood join East Midlands Chamber’s Rick Blackmore, sharing how they built the business, the importance of systems thinking and the compound gains to be achieved from effective AI implementation and digital transformation.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO EPISODE 3
The Chamber’s new podcast – The One for Business – is available to download or listen. Click here or go to wherever you get podcasts.
