In an age of digital platforms and global outreach, the value of local connection remains unmatched. For businesses, charities, and public sector organisations, building strong relationships within your own community can unlock opportunities, foster resilience, and create lasting impact.

That’s exactly what We Are Wakefield Ltd, has achieved. With over 200 members, it has grown into a vibrant, collaborative family of professionals who share a common goal: to support one another and thrive together.

What sets We Are Wakefield apart is its holistic approach to networking. It’s not just about events—it’s about building a toolkit that responds to real member needs. This toolkit includes:

• A heavily subscribed newsletter filled with opportunities, updates, and member highlights
• The We Are Wakefield Podcast, showcasing member stories, best practices, and sector insights
• A LinkedIn members group for ongoing dialogue and collaboration
• Social events like the Quiz Night in partnership with Wakefield Hospice, where members enjoy friendly competition that never outweighs the spirit of collaboration
• Regular volunteer days with member charities to support CSR initiatives and give back to those supporting our community

Beyond the core membership, WAW offers flagship initiatives that extend its impact across the region:

• The Wakefield Business Awards, celebrating excellence across sectors
• The Wakefield Expo, a showcase of innovation, enterprise, and community spirit
• The West Yorkshire Conference, a platform for strategic dialogue and regional development

These events provide further opportunities for visibility, learning, and connection—bringing together businesses, charities, educators, and public sector leaders in meaningful ways.

The results speak for themselves. Large organisations like the Mid-Yorkshire NHS Trust have opened up local supply chains, while national companies with a Wakefield presence have streamlined procurement and created new opportunities for members. The estimated x12 ROI on networking reflects the depth and quality of these connections.

One member, Sarah Knight, Director of JS Recruitment, shared her experience:

“At JS Recruitment, we’ve always believed that business isn’t just about transactions, it’s about relationships. Over the years, we’ve discovered the true magic of networking: connecting with like-minded professionals, sharing ideas and creating opportunities that wouldn’t exist in isolation.

Being a member of We Are Wakefield has brought this to life for us. It’s not just a network. It’s a community of ambitious, supportive and collaborative business leaders. Through our involvement, we’ve experienced tangible benefits that have strengthened every area of our business…”

Sarah’s story is one of many. From securing new clients and suppliers to strengthening CSR strategies and learning from peers, the benefits of local networking through We Are Wakefield are both wide-reaching and deeply personal.

In Wakefield, collaboration isn’t just encouraged—it’s embedded in the culture. And that’s what makes We Are Wakefield stand out: it’s not just a network. It’s a movement. With strong and clear ambition for 2026, this movement can only become more significant.

 

We Are Wakefield, the district’s leading business support organisation, is proud to announce the appointment of Sylvie Giangolini, UK Managing Director of Hako Machines Ltd, as its new Chair. Sylvie succeeds Sir Rodney Walker, who steps down as Chair after three transformative years, having joined the organisation in 2022. Sir Rodney will continue to lend his invaluable guidance as President.

Under Sir Rodney’s stewardship, WAW has grown from a struggling network of just eight members into a vibrant, collaborative community supporting nearly 200 local businesses and organisations. His unwavering support and strategic insight have been instrumental in shaping WAW into the powerhouse it is today. Sir Rodney said of his time as Chair: “When I was first asked by Claire to assist in stabilising & the development of We are Wakefield I was impressed with both her ambition & enthusiasm. In truth, apart from offering support & guidance the progress of the organisation is wholly down to the work of Claire. I am pleased to have helped & hand the chair responsibility to Sylvie who has impressed with her contribution in the short time since her appointment to the board.”

Sylvie Giangolini joined WAW as a member in September 2024 and was swiftly invited onto the Board in recognition of her exceptional leadership and commitment to local collaboration. Her passion for community-driven growth and her alignment with WAW’s values made her the unanimous choice to take on the role of Chair. Sylvie added: “I’m honoured to be elected Chair and pick up the great work started by Sir Rodney, Claire and the wider Board.  Joining WAW has been transformative for our business, shaping new, innovative and powerful business collaborations which has strengthened what we can in turn provide our customer base.  As the Chair of WAW, I want to ensure that all businesses in the WF region understand and capitalise on the huge benefit that joining WAW can do for their business, however big or small you are, just 2 hours a month networking can change how you manage supply chains and do great business in our local community.”

Clare Thornton of Thornton Jones Solicitors, who has served on the Board since 2022, will remain a Board member and has stepped down as Vice Chair. Clare played a pivotal role in supporting WAW Managing Director Claire Sutherley in revitalising the organisation, helping transform it into a thriving hub for business, education, culture, and the VCSE sector.

Helen McDonald, Managing Director of Solupak and a Board member since 2022, has been appointed Vice Chair. As a sustainability champion and local business leader, Helen’s hands-on approach and extensive experience will be invaluable as WAW navigates its next phase of growth. Solupak has proudly served as an Ambassador member for three years, and Helen’s contributions have been vital to WAW’s mission. Helen said of her appointment: “I’m honoured to take on the role of Vice Chair at such an exciting time for We Are Wakefield. Having seen first-hand how the organisation has transformed into a thriving and supportive network, I’m passionate about continuing to strengthen those connections across our district. Collaboration is at the heart of what makes Wakefield such a vibrant place to do business, and I look forward to working with Sylvie, Claire, and the Board to build on the fantastic foundations already in place.”

“I am thrilled to see our Board’s leadership evolve and strengthen,” said Claire Sutherley, Managing Director of We Are Wakefield. “With Sylvie at the helm and Helen as Vice Chair, supported by such dedicated board members, we are poised to provide an even more solid support system for our members and continue driving real impact across our community.”

We Are Wakefield’s impact on the local economy is profound. By facilitating collaboration between businesses, local authorities, education providers, cultural organisations, and the voluntary sector, WAW acts as a catalyst for innovation, resilience, and growth across the district. The organisation’s inclusive approach and unwavering commitment to community values ensure that Wakefield continues to thrive as a place to live, work, and grow.

Every month, We Are Wakefield’s First Friday events pack out venues like Nostell Priory, WX and Tileyard North—and often leave eager Wakefield professionals on waiting lists. This isn’t just popularity; it’s proof that collaboration is Wakefield’s superpower. The district’s Economic Wellbeing Strategy places collective prosperity, inclusive participation, and community wealth building at its heart. These aren’t buzzwords. They’re strategies shown to deliver stronger growth, greater resilience, and more social mobility than any one organisation can achieve on its own.

We Are Wakefield is a district-wide community of businesses, social enterprises, public bodies, and education groups. Through monthly networking events, expos, skill-sharing workshops, and strategic partnerships, it creates the space where ideas cross-pollinate, projects launch, and long-term collaborations form.

 Why Community Matters for Local Prosperity

Community wealth building flips the traditional economic model on its head by keeping more value in local hands. Progressive councils from Preston to Wakefield have championed this people-centred approach:

• On implementing this strategy, local public body spending in Preston surged, circulating millions more pounds within its borough.
• Anchor institutions in Wakefield—Mid Yorkshire NHS Teaching Trust, the National Coal Mining Museum and Heart of Yorkshire Education Group—now partner with small businesses on procurement, skills training, and innovation projects.
• Voluntary and community organisations gain funding and strategic support to deliver social programmes that lift all residents.

After hosting a We Are Wakefield First Friday event, Mid Yorkshire NHS Teaching Trust commented:

“Since the event, the partnerships team at Mid Yorkshire have maintained contact with the local businesses who attended the event, with follow up conversations evolving with a further ten local businesses. Of course, this has meant more time for building relationships with fabulous We Are Wakefield members, as we explore the potential to work together.
The event allowed Mid Yorkshire to raise awareness of the organisation by being a host, and by delivering the spotlight presentation we have been able to articulate clearly to We Are Wakefield members exactly what the potential is to work together. This has been a fantastic opportunity and one which we highly encourage other members to tap into.”

Equally, the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group has found real value from its membership and involvement in We Are Wakefield. Sam Wright, Principal & Chief Executive, asserts:

“Being a member of We Are Wakefield has brought many benefits to our Group of Colleges, including networking opportunities with local businesses and stakeholders. It has allowed us to showcase our colleges and the ways we want to work with employers to further enhance our students’ experiences through work placements and employer visits and talks. This kind of employer engagement vastly improves our students’ aspirations and ambitions and helps them to achieve their potential.”

Lynn Dunning, CEO of the National Coal Mining Museum for England, shares:

“When I started as CEO at the National Coal Mining Museum in November 2023 I was interested in reaching out to as many organisations as possible—from my previous experience you always achieve so much more by working in partnership and through creating local networks. We Are Wakefield stood out as the perfect opportunity to meet lots of very talented local organisations working for the greater good of our communities. We have collaborated with members on so many brilliant initiatives since joining—from digital projects to graphic design and print, to education projects, fundraising activities and so much more—all hugely benefiting our local communities and economy.”

The Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Ed Anderson, CBE adds:

“I was very pleased to be a speaker at one of We Are Wakefield’s monthly meetings. I was very impressed by the positivity in the meeting and the determination of participants to use the power of networking and collaboration not just for the good of their own organisations but also for the wider prosperity of Wakefield and the surrounding District.”

When spend, skills, and decision-making stay local, everyone benefits,businesses grow, workers earn fair wages, and civic groups build the social fabric that underpins long-term prosperity.

 Connecting Business and Education: Nurturing Future Talent

We Are Wakefield has quickly become the vital bridge between local business and education, working closely with Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, Silcoates School, Wakefield Grammar School Foundation and most of the Academy Trusts across the district to connect students, from an early stage, with potential employers. Wakefield is not a University city, and has the potential to lose talent that moves away. By creating work-placements, mentorships, and skills workshops, we ensure our future talent gains the right experience—and knows there are genuine career pathways right here in Wakefield.

 Wakefield’s Model: From Networks to Measurable Impact

The numbers speak volumes. Recent research estimates a return of £12.50 for every pound invested in business networking and travel—driven by faster referrals, collective problem-solving, and greater visibility for growing firms. But the value isn’t only financial. At every First Friday:

• Entrepreneurs find co-founders for joint ventures.
• Established firms uncover new suppliers and expand their supply chains.
• Neighbourhood charities and social enterprises secure volunteers and funding.

This social capital combats isolation, boosts individual purpose, and embeds social justice into our shared economic agenda. It aligns perfectly with regional goals for inclusive, environmentally sustainable growth and ensures every Wakefield resident feels they “actively participate and belong.”

A recent research project from Wakefield Council, Huddersfield University and 3M Buckley Innovation Centre revealed Wakefield’s Top 100 businesses based on data including profit, employee numbers and growth.

Georgina Wareing, of OE Electrics and named in Wakefield’s Top 100 businesses, explains:

“For larger manufacturers like OE, integrating into our local network offers strategic advantages that go beyond surface-level perception. It strengthens our brand by rooting ourselves in the community, attracts local talent with a vested interest in Wakefield, and supports a more agile, resilient supply chain by shortening logistics. Our involvement in local initiatives also reinforces our ESG commitments—from environmental sustainability and workforce development to supporting community campaigns. In a globalised world, a strong local presence isn’t a limitation—it’s a competitive edge.”

Duncan Heywood, of Concept Recruitment Group, another Wakefield Top 100 honouree, shares:

“We first joined We Are Wakefield out of curiosity. Once we became members, it quickly became clear that the people and businesses involved are genuinely passionate about the Wakefield area and incredibly welcoming. Concept Recruitment Group is proud of its Wakefield roots—doing business here and beyond. Our We Are Wakefield membership provides a fantastic platform to showcase everything the district has to offer.”

Final Thought: Collaboration as Catalyst

We Are Wakefield is far more than a monthly meet-up. It’s a living, breathing example of community wealth building in action—where every handshake sparks potential, every conversation seeds a future project, and every new member strengthens the district’s collective wellbeing. If you’re ready to experience the energy, forge meaningful connections, and play a part in Wakefield’s next chapter of growth, join us at our next event. Because when Wakefield wins, we all win.

 

Why Big Businesses Belong in Local Business Networks

Insights from Bluestone and Hako Machines

When you picture a local business network, you might imagine a room full of start-ups, independents, and SMEs swapping ideas and support. But increasingly, large businesses are stepping into these spaces — not just to lend their weight, but to gain something meaningful in return.

At We Are Wakefield, we’ve seen how transformative it can be when major employers get involved. And we’re not the only ones. Two of our members — Bluestone and Hako Machines — shared what being part of a local network has meant for them. Their reflections offer a compelling case for why big businesses should pull up a chair.

Vineesh Madaan, Managing Director of Bluestone, puts it simply:

“Being part of a local business network has been a great way for Bluestone to build relationships, share experiences, and support each other’s growth within our local economy. Networks like this make it easy for businesses of all sizes to come together. For us, it’s not just about making connections, but also about sharing knowledge, opening doors, and supporting others in our community.”

That sense of shared purpose — of being part of something bigger than your own bottom line — is a recurring theme. But it’s not just about goodwill. It’s about strategy, too.

Sylvie Giangolini, Managing Director of Hako Machines, has seen tangible business benefits since joining:

“Cannot recommend the value of We Are Wakefield enough. Since joining last year, we have new suppliers supporting our IT, Audio Visual/Visitor Management systems, SEO support and have taken on two apprentices at our Wakefield office — something we wouldn’t have thought of without the networking of We Are Wakefield. We have also forged a long-lasting collaboration with another Wakefield manufacturer in that we now supply their products as part of our range offering, adding value and support to all our UK customer base.

Joining for us wasn’t just about what we can sell — it was how do we improve our business, which in turn makes us better support our UK customer base. If we can also give something back to our wider community, there’s win-wins all round.”

That’s the magic of local networks: they’re not just about visibility or reputation (though those come naturally). They’re about unlocking new supply chain partners, discovering talent, and finding unexpected collaborations that make your business stronger.

And let’s not forget the internal impact. Employees want to feel connected — not just to their work, but to the place they live and the values their employer stands for. Local engagement offers real opportunities for staff to mentor, volunteer, and grow.

For large businesses, joining a local network isn’t a box-ticking exercise. It’s a strategic move that delivers on ESG goals, strengthens brand loyalty, and opens doors to innovation. It’s about being part of the local story — not just operating in it.

At We Are Wakefield, we believe our strength lies in our diversity — from microbusinesses to multinationals. When large organisations get involved, they elevate the entire network. And in return, they gain insight, connection, and impact that can’t be found elsewhere.

If you’re a large employer in Wakefield or the surrounding area, we’d love to welcome you into our community. Come along to our next event or drop us a line — let’s build something brilliant, together.

Contact: Claire@wearewakefield.org.uk

Nestled within the stunning Chapter House of Wakefield Cathedral, the We Are Wakefield Ambassador Dinner was an unforgettable evening of gratitude, conversation, and camaraderie. With a beautifully curated spring-flower themed table bathed in candlelight, the setting reflected the warmth and unity of the Ambassadors—an elite group of businesses dedicated to fostering collaboration across the region.

A Gathering of Leadership & Community

Joined by Managing Director Claire Sutherley DL and Chair Sir Rodney Walker, all ten We Are Wakefield Ambassadors came together to reflect on their shared commitment to strengthening business relationships and building a thriving local economy. Their role extends beyond financial contributions; they actively champion the work of We Are Wakefield, bridging connections between businesses, charities, education providers, local authorities, and cultural organisations.

An Evening to Remember

The conversations flowed effortlessly throughout the evening, underscoring the Ambassadors’ passion for supporting and engaging with their fellow members. Against the backdrop of Wakefield Cathedral’s historic architecture, discussions ranged from industry insights to the impact of collaboration on regional growth.

Of course, no exceptional evening is complete without exceptional food, and the culinary artistry of Create delivered just that. Diners were treated to a beautifully crafted menu, beginning with Arancini balls, followed by supreme chicken fillet served with vegetables and dauphinoise potatoes, and concluding with a decadent Rhubarb Bakewell tart. The meal was as much a talking point as the evening itself, perfectly complementing the elegant surroundings and lively discussions.

Celebrating A Special Community

This dinner was more than just an event—it was a celebration of the vision and commitment of the We Are Wakefield Ambassadors, who continue to champion the spirit of collaboration and inclusivity. Their ongoing support ensures that businesses of all sizes and sectors thrive within a connected, supportive, and engaged community.

We Are Wakefield Ambassadors for 2025:

• Elis
• Juice Personnel
• OE
• Prosper Wakefield District
• RV2 Power
• Solupak
• The Nostell Estate
• The One Point
• Thornton Jones Solicitors
• Vision IFAs

 

📸 Gallery 

📅 9 July 2025
📍 Pontefract Racecourse

The countdown has begun for the West Yorkshire Conference 2025, a landmark event designed to unite businesses and professionals from across the five boroughs. Brought to you by We Are Wakefield and sponsored by Thornton Jones Solicitors, this conference is more than just a networking opportunity—it’s a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and regional growth.

A Conference for the Whole Region

West Yorkshire is a powerhouse of business and enterprise, spanning Leeds, Wakefield, Kirklees, Bradford, and Calderdale. This conference ensures every corner of the region is represented, connected, and empowered with insights from industry leaders and changemakers.

An Unmissable Lineup of Speakers

The stage is set for an unparalleled lineup of speakers, each bringing unique expertise and inspiration to the day:

🎤 Host – The acclaimed Christa Ackroyd, guiding us through the event with her renowned professionalism.
🏆 Headline Speaker – The legendary Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards, sharing his insights on resilience, ambition, and overcoming obstacles.
🌟 Speakers:
🔹 Nicky Chance-Thompson MBE DL, CEO of The Piece Hall – discussing leadership, heritage, and business success.
🔹 James Pomeroy, Global Economist at HSBC – offering key insights into economic trends and business growth strategies.
🔹 Alexandra Thornton of Human Alchemy – sharing transformative approaches to leadership and workplace culture.

Why You Should Attend

This conference is the ultimate gathering for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals looking to:
✔️ Expand their networks across West Yorkshire.
✔️ Gain invaluable industry insights from renowned speakers.
✔️ Discover opportunities for growth and collaboration.
✔️ Be part of a regional movement driving innovation and success.

Secure Your Place Today

With a lineup this strong, tickets are selling fast! Don’t miss your chance to be part of West Yorkshire’s premier business event.

🎟️ Get your tickets now: www.westyorkshireconference.org.uk

#WestYorkshireConference #WeAreWakefield #Networking #BusinessGrowth #Inspiration #WYConference2025

On Saturday, 8th March 2025, over 100 attendees gathered at the National Coal Mining Museum to celebrate International Women’s Day. Hosted collaboratively by We Are Wakefield, the National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield District Labour Women’s Forum, Wakefield Well Women’s Centre, and Wakefield & District Soroptimists, the event was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and uplifted.

The day featured insightful speeches, a lively Q&A session, and opportunities to connect with local organisations dedicated to empowering women. Highlights included talks by Jade Botterill MP (MP for Ossett & Denby Dale), Lucy Ndlovu (Progressive Talent CIC), Lucy Farrar (Young Ambassador, Girl Guides), Ali Carruthers-Illingworth (Purple Pebble People), Cllr Denise Jeffery (Leader of Wakefield Council), and Lynn Dunning (CEO of the National Coal Mining Museum), who shared the inspirational story of the woman behind Caphouse Colliery.

All the speakers engaged in a dynamic Q&A panel session, hosted by Claire Sutherley DL, Managing Director of We Are Wakefield, where attendees had the opportunity to delve deeper into the inspiring topics discussed.

The event raised £418 through a raffle, with the proceeds going to Wakefield District City of Sanctuary. Claire Sutherley, Cllr Gwen Page, and Jane Walton from Wakefield Soroptimists presented the cheque to Dick Davis of Wakefield District City of Sanctuary at The Nostell Estate, home of We Are Wakefield.

“This comes to us at a crucial time and will go to help fund the work we do to support migrant women across the District,” said Dick Davis.

Claire Sutherley shared her thoughts on the event: “We Are Wakefield was happy to collaborate with these other organisations to host this wonderful event to celebrate women in the Wakefield District. The venue, National Coal Mining Museun for England, was the perfect setting for an afternoon of sheer inspiration. It was an honour to listen to our amazing speakers and facilitate a really vibrant Q&A session.”

The day also included stalls from numerous organisations, such as Labour Women’s Group, Wakefield Well Women’s Centre, Wakefield & District Soroptimists, Girl Guides, Cridling Ltd, Clutter is the Enemy, and Zenith Pictures, offering a variety of resources and opportunities for attendees to connect with local initiatives.

To complete the occasion, a wonderful afternoon tea was provided by The Caring Kitchen, delighting attendees with its exceptional quality and warm hospitality, further fostering a sense of connection and celebration.

For media enquiries, please contact:
claire@wearewakefield.org.uk

 

On Friday, January 17th, 2025, We Are Wakefield, in collaboration with Wakefield Council and the Ministry of Defence, hosted an incredible knowledge sharing event titled “From Service to Success – How the Armed Forces Community Can Strengthen Your Workforce”  at Wakefield Town Hall.

 

This event proved to be a powerful testament to the value the Armed Forces community brings to the workforce. Delegates had the opportunity to:

– Unlock access to a highly skilled talent pool including service leavers, veterans, reservists, cadets, and their families

– Discover transferable, soft, and specialist skills our Armed Forces community can offer

– Gain insights into the military and Armed Forces community, and

– Hear from esteemed keynote speakers, panel guests, and employer case studies highlighting the tangible benefits of engaging with and employing from this community.

 

The event’s agenda was packed with informative sessions, starting with a warm welcome from notable figures such as Councillor Josie Pritchard, Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Mr Ed Anderson CBE, Home Secretary Rt Hon Yvette Cooper, and Simon Lightwood MP. Colonel Peter Stitt’s keynote address set the tone, emphasising the strength and potential of the Armed Forces community.

 

Sessions on supporting the Armed Forces community in employment, employer case studies, and insights from local reservists and cadet forces underscored the breadth of talent and dedication within this community. We also explored the benefits of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and heard from a large private sector organisation on the advantages of recruiting from the Armed Forces community.

 

The event concluded with closing remarks from Armed Forces Champion Cllr Josie Pritchard, and a symbolic signing of the Armed Forces Covenant by the Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire and Guy Cramer of Cyber Intelligence & Advisory Ltd, further cementing their commitment to supporting this remarkable community.

We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all speakers, guests, and delegates for their participation and engagement. Your contributions made this event a resounding success.

 

If you’d like to more information on how signing the Armed Forces Covenant can support your business go to:

Home – Armed Forces Covenant

Check out the event photos captured by Chris Whittam Photography in our gallery below.

Let’s continue to champion the Armed Forces community and unlock their potential within our workforce.

 

#WeAreWakefield #ArmedForces #FromServiceToSuccess #KnowledgeSharing #TalentPool #WorkforceStrength