BW3 welcome local businesses and organisations to network, hear from prominent guest speakers and meet with like minded business people

Business Working With Wythenshawe is pleased to host our regular networking event, Wythenshawe Business Gateway, at great venues in and around South Manchester.

Wythenshawe Business Gateway is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to network, build new relationships and hear from inspirational speakers and organisations about issues affecting businesses and our local community.

Inclusive Employment, Social Mobility and Unlocking PotentialJoin BW3 for our next Wythenshawe Business Gateway, bringing together local businesses, organisations and professionals for an evening of networking, insight and discussion.

This time, we'll be welcoming two speakers who will share their experiences of helping people and organisations reach their potential, with a particular focus on inclusive employment, social mobility and developing people.

Guest Speakers

Darren Burns - Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Timpson Group and Head of the Timpson Foundation

How Timpson Became One of the Most Inclusive Employers in the UK

Darren will give us an insight into the Timpson business and, in particular, the work of the Timpson Foundation. He'll explore why and how Timpson champions inclusive employment, supporting people from marginalised groups and those who face barriers to employment.

With responsibility for recruitment and retention of ex-offenders and others facing employment barriers, Darren also oversees Timpson's prison training academies and supports individuals making the transition from custody into the workplace.

A former police officer with a Master's degree in Applied Criminology, Penology and Management from the University of Cambridge, Darren brings considerable experience and passion to the subject. He'll share what drives Timpson's approach, the benefits of giving people opportunities and how businesses can play their part in creating a more inclusive workforce.

Julia Wolfendale - Director, On The Up Consulting Ltd | Accredited Executive Coach

Julia is an experienced executive coach who works with leaders and organisations to develop people, build confidence and unlock potential.

She will share insights from her work supporting individuals and businesses to achieve positive change.

Further details about Julia's session will be added shortly.

Why attend?

Whether you're a business owner, manager, HR professional or simply interested in learning more about supporting people and creating opportunities, this is a great opportunity to:

Hear from experienced professionals with different perspectives on developing people and inclusive employment.

Discover how businesses can benefit from recognising and supporting talent from all backgrounds.

Gain ideas and inspiration that you can take back into your own organisation.

Connect with other local businesses and organisations.

Find out more about the work of BW3 and opportunities to get involved across Wythenshawe.

About Wythenshawe Business Gateway

BW3's Wythenshawe Business Gateway events bring together businesses, organisations and individuals from across Wythenshawe and the wider Manchester area. They provide an opportunity to network, share knowledge, hear from interesting speakers and explore ways to support the local business community and wider community.

How can your business get involved?

There are lots of ways businesses can support young people, whether through:

Becoming a reading mentor

Speaking to young people about your career or industry

Supporting careers events and workplace visits

Offering work experience

Providing mentoring and employability support

Volunteering in local schools

Supporting BW3 projects through sponsorship or fundraising

You don't have to be a large employer to make a difference. Your time, experience, knowledge and connections can all help a young person take their next step.

Event Details

📅 Thursday 26 November 2026

🕔 5pm-7pm

📍 The Nest, Timpson, Wythenshawe

🎟️ Free to attend | Light refreshments provided | Booking essential

Event Itinerary

Networking

Welcome and introduction to BW3

Guest speakers

Close and further networking

We look forward to welcoming you to The Nest for an evening of networking, discussion and insight into how businesses can create opportunities and help people reach their potential.

Book your place and join the conversation!

Description supplied by the event organiser.