This network is all about making real connections

Generation

Tell us about the organisation you work for and your role within it?

Nelsons Solicitors is a law firm based across the East Midlands, which offers advice and support to businesses and individuals regarding their legal and investment needs. We aim to empower our clients, give them a voice and steer them through the complex legal issues they may face.

I am a senior associate and solicitor at Nelsons, specialising in employment law. I offer contentious and non-contentious advice on all employment-related matters to employees and employers across the East Midlands and beyond.

I specialise in services such as settlement agreements, employment tribunal claims, advising on a range of day-to-day issues such as discrimination, disciplinaries, grievances and performance management, and supporting with the employment law aspects of corporate transactions. I relish in navigating my way through involved issues and finding creative solutions for clients, and particularly enjoy representing clients in negotiations and litigation, as well as assisting with corporate matters.

Why did you sign up to Generation Next membership?

I am fortunate to work alongside one of Generation Next’s champions, Beth Bearder. As a result, I quickly became aware of the fantastic purpose behind setting up the

‘As a young professional, I found that networking could be daunting at times and the Generation Next network offered something different’ network and the work it does.

I was obviously keen to get involved and do my bit to support that. As a young professional, I found that networking could be daunting at times and the Generation Next network offered something different, including the opportunity to build on and develop great connections while also having a focus on developing personal and professional skills.

Which Generation Next events have you attended and what was your experience like?

I have attended a variety of events from skills workshops on public speaking and combatting imposter syndrome, to “netwalks”, awards evenings and even “chair yoga”.

The events are always wellorganised, attracting a good variety of people from different walks of life and I always come away feeling I have gained something – even if that includes a pair of very soggy socks after the netwalk! I have always felt welcomed into the network, and have made some valuable connections and friendships.

The next event I plan on attending is a workshop on being an effective leader in April, which I am really looking forward to.

How has the support you’ve received from the events programme been useful to your career development and current job role?

I have taken a lot of skills away from the Generation Next events I have attended, which have helped further me in my career – maybe even playing a part in my promotion last year.

Being part of the Generation Next network has really helped me grow my network and self-confidence, all in a fun and friendly setting.

A 12-month Generation Next membership costs £150, with a 20% discount available to Chamber members and organisations purchasing two or more memberships. For more information, visit generationnextemc.co.uk

Two new partners join programme

Nottingham Trent University (NTU) and Express Recruitment have joined Generation Next as partners. The organisations will join the network’s cohort of partners – headline partner University of Derby, Nottingham University Business School, Fraser Stretton Property Group, Hardy Signs, Loughborough College and PPL PRS – in championing its vision to support and develop young professionals within the East Midlands.

Both organisations will have an active role in Generation Next’s awards programme, which will be celebrated on 13 July with a ceremony at Bustler Market in Derby.

NTU will sponsor the Rising Star category, while Express Recruitment will sponsor the Customer Service category. Representatives from each organisation will help with the shortlisting finalists – due to be announced on 26 April – and in virtual judging days, which take place on 9 and 10 May.

The organisations will now receive exposure via Generation Next’s channels over the next year and feature in events run for members of the network. Members of their teams will also be granted places on the membership service, which includes access to its webinars and networking events, mentoring service and document library.

Lucy Robinson, the Chamber’s director of resources and Generation Next lead, said: “We are delighted to welcome NTU and Express Recruitment to our network as partners.

“With the support of our fantastic partners, Generation Next can continue our vision to support and champion young talent working across the East Midlands.”