We explore the reputational challenges facing the region and ask what role the business community can play in changing the narrative.

When national headlines paint a damaging picture of Middlesbrough and Teesside, what does it mean for the businesses trying to invest, grow, recruit and attract talent here – and what can we do about it?

That will be the focus of a timely and thought-provoking Tees Business LIVE at Acklam Hall, Middlesbrough, in association with Square One.

Over recent weeks, Middlesbrough and the wider Tees Valley have attracted national headlines for organised crime, violence and tragedy. Those stories have been seen by millions of people across the UK and beyond.

But this discussion isn't about policing or politics.

It's about business, reputation and confidence.

What impact do damaging headlines have on perceptions of our region? Do they influence investment decisions?

Do they make it more difficult for businesses to recruit talented people from outside the area?

And what happens when customers, clients, colleagues or potential employees ask: "What's going on in Teesside?"

Our expert panel will explore the reputational challenges facing the region and ask what role the business community can play in changing the narrative.

We'll consider whether the national media has fairly represented Middlesbrough and Teesside, whether we sometimes need to acknowledge uncomfortable truths rather than simply complain about negative coverage, and how we can ensure the region's successes, opportunities and ambitions are heard just as loudly.

Most importantly, we'll look forward.

How can businesses become stronger ambassadors for Teesside? How do we showcase the innovation, investment and success stories happening here every day?

And how do we make sure that a relatively small number of negative stories don't come to define an entire region?

Talking Up Teesside – When the Nation Talks Us Down will be an open, constructive and solutions-focused conversation involving an expert panel and an audience of local business leaders, entrepreneurs and decision-makers.

NETWORK, CONNECT AND JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Tees Business LIVE isn't just about listening to our panel.

There will be plenty of opportunity to meet and connect with fellow members of the Teesside business community, share views and build new relationships in the impressive surroundings of Middlesbrough's only Grade I listed building, Acklam Hall.

The event runs from 11am to 1pm on Tuesday, October 13, with networking opportunities over refreshments and canapés from Acklam Hall's new Brasserie.

Tees Business LIVE is held in association with Square One and our series associate the North East Chamber of Commerce.

Join us as we confront the challenges, celebrate what's going right and ask what all of us can do to keep Talking Up Teesside.

Description supplied by the event organiser.