FORRESTERS APPOINTS NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND SUPPORTS SMES

Forresters have appointed Tas Quayum as chief operating officer as part of its commitment for growth, which includes streamlining processes and increasing collaboration across each of the firm’s teams and offices. He will be leading operational and financial management at Forresters and said he is looking forward to working with a dynamic and motivated team.

“When I first met the firm’s partners it was obvious that they were a great group of people that worked hard to achieve the best outcomes for their clients,” said Tas. “Growth and expansion have been a priority for Forresters, and it was good to see that the partners are open to change to help them achieve the results they are after. I want to help unblock bottlenecks and my door will always be open so that people can discuss any issues.”

Meanwhile the firm has partnered with TBAT Innovation to provide IP support to SMEs looking to innovate. The Innovation Challenge, has been designed to bring together partners to provide expert guidance to growing companies in four key areas. The Innovation Challenge will see partners deliver four free, informative workshops on the topics of:

Finance - All you need to know to fund your business growth

People & Recruitment - Why recruit the best people you can?

Product Design & Protection - How to design and protect your innovation

Business Strategy & Marketing - The importance of external help

The workshops will be held throughout Spring 2022. In May applications will open for businesses to submit a full business plan and be eligible to win a £5,000 cash prize and tailored support packages from partners. Two runners up will also receive a support package from partners.

In June a showcase for the top 10 finalists will be held where the winners will be announced. Finalists will have the opportunity to present their business in a 10-minute pitch in front of key investors.

Greg Smith and Dr Jagvir Purewal, senior associate patent attorneys at Forresters, will deliver the IP aspects of the Product Design and Protection workshop. Jagvir said: “We’re proud to be partnering with TBAT Innovation for The Innovation Challenge.

IP can be difficult for SMEs to navigate as they seek to innovate and grow and we have a wealth of experience at Forresters in helping companies establish a solid IP position. I’m looking forward to working with the innovative companies involved in the challenge.”