TechWM, a key player in the regional technology industry, has announced significant additions to its leadership team. The new appointments come as the organisation experiences substantial growth and prepares for future opportunities.
Introducing a new chairman and several board members, TechWM aims to enhance its strategic direction and continue its pivotal role in the technology sector.
Leadership Changes
TechWM, a prominent organisation serving the regional technology industry, has recently unveiled significant changes within its leadership team. This announcement includes the appointment of a new chairman and additional board members, signifying a strategic drive towards further growth and innovation.
Jason Sahota will now serve as chairman, bringing over two decades of experience in technology and business leadership to the table. He has previously held advisory roles, primarily focusing on technology start-ups and scale-ups in the West Midlands.
Outgoing Chairwoman’s Perspective
Kim Leary, the outgoing chairwoman, remains on the board and reflects on her tenure with pride. Leary has been a part of the board since its early days following the first Birmingham Tech Week in 2019. She assumed the chair role in 2020, contributing significantly to the organisation’s success.
Leary stated, “I stepped into the chair role at a time when Birmingham Tech Week was in its infancy because I truly believed in its purpose. That was nearly five years ago and, naturally, the time has come for me to step down as chair. However, I will remain a board member because that belief still burns strong and I know there is more to do.”
New Board Members
The board is also welcoming new members, including Elizabeth Zeddie Lawal, Joanna Birch, and Daniel Campion. These appointments bring substantial expertise from various sectors, marking a diversification in the board’s strategic capabilities. The new members contribute a combined 40 years of experience.
Elizabeth Zeddie Lawal, founder of the creative agency More Than A Moment, will take on the role of vice-chairwoman. Joanna Birch, chief innovation officer at property investor Woodbourne, and Daniel Campion, CEO of software firm Sitenna, complete the new lineup.
Financial Growth
TechWM has reported a remarkable 78 per cent growth in revenue for the year leading up to July 2024. This financial success underscores the organisation’s expanding influence within the tech industry, fostering greater opportunities for innovation and development.
This growth comes at a pivotal time ahead of the sixth annual Birmingham Tech Week, a key event that attracts numerous stakeholders and leaders in the technology sector.
New Director of Digital Skills and Commercial Impact
Victoria Pargetter-Garner is set to join TechWM as the new director of digital skills and commercial impact. Pargetter-Garner comes from the University of Birmingham, where she played a significant role in advancing digital skills and commercial initiatives.
Her appointment is expected to further enhance TechWM’s capacity to support the digital transformation agenda within the region, equipping businesses with essential skills to thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace.
Impact on the Tech Ecosystem
The strategic expansion of TechWM’s board is poised to have a substantial impact on the regional tech ecosystem. With a diverse team in place, the organisation is well-positioned to drive forward-thinking initiatives and strengthen industry collaborations.
The new leadership lineup is also expected to bolster TechWM’s role in fostering innovation, supporting start-ups, and contributing to the economic development of the West Midlands technology sector.
Looking Ahead
The recent developments within TechWM represent a proactive approach to addressing the evolving needs of the tech industry. The enhanced leadership team is well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring sustained growth and impact.
The organisation is optimistic about its future, anticipating further accomplishments and continued contributions to the regional technology landscape.
The leadership changes at TechWM mark a pivotal moment for the organisation as it looks to build on its successes and drive future growth.
With a strengthened board, TechWM is well-positioned to innovate and lead the tech industry in the West Midlands.
