NECA – People, Potential and Opportunity

In January 2025, BeaconHouse Events supported the North East Combined Authority (NECA) in bringing together 245 members of the North East business community for People, Potential and Opportunity, an inspiring and motivational event held at Newcastle Civic Centre. Designed to spark ideas and drive change, the event encouraged businesses to adopt good work best practices, highlighting how positive workplace changes can benefit both organisations and the wider region.

Hosted by Charlie Charlton, the event opened with North East Mayor Kim McGuinness outlining the authority’s vision for the region. Attendees then heard from a line-up of regional leaders on key topics including flexible working, recruitment and retention, social responsibility, and health and wellbeing. Speakers included Clare Morley, CEO of headline sponsor Rise, Ocean Marketing Manager Gabe Davies from Patagonia Europe, and Gill Hunter, Managing Partner at Square One Law, who delivered a keynote on authentic leadership.

With a strong focus on action and impact, the event also featured an exhibition of event sponsors and valuable networking opportunities to continue the discussion. During the networking break, attendees enjoyed a delicious selection of tray bakes from Pudding Parlour.

BeaconHouse Events managed all aspects of the event, including venue coordination, speaker sourcing and logistics, supplier management, registration, and onsite delivery, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for all involved.

“Thanks again for all your help and support, so many people commented on how slick the event was!” Caroline Preston, Good Work Lead, NECA