As we close the chapter on an incredible 2024, we’re reflecting on last year’s milestones and sharing a sneak peek at the opportunities 2025 has in store!

We also take a moment to bid a heartfelt farewell to our Chair, Simon Whalley, whose leadership has been truly inspiring. At the same time, we extend a warm welcome to his successor, Michael Coughlin, as he steps into this pivotal role.

 

What we achieved in 2024

Member Engagement:

  • Launched the Lunch Hour Link-up for networking and support.
  • Introduced the Summer Gala Dinner and hosted 3 new Netwalks.
  • Ran sell-out masterclasses and unique member-led workshops like glass-making and chocolate tasting.
  • Regular networking events, including the popular Watts Gallery gathering, sold out.
  • Ran an impactful Sustainability conference

Marketing & Visibility:

  • SEO-optimised members’ web pages and launched a weekly Member Spotlight on social media.
  • Delivered 10,000 copies of the “Guide to the Surrey Hills” and created PR opportunities through local media.

Public Events:

  • Hosted 12 events, featuring over 90 stallholders and attracting 15,000 visitors despite weather challenges.

Collaboration:

  • Built partnerships with hotels, corporate buyers, and organisations like Surrey Chambers of Commerce.
  • Supported pop-ups and markets with Denbies, Hall Hunter, and Squire’s.

 

Some of the things we can look forward to in 2025:

🌟 New Member Services: Free and upgraded listings in the new “Guide to the Surrey Hills.”

🌟 Exciting Events: Launching the Surrey Hills Country Fair, Fire and Food Fair, and the Power of Place conference.

🌟 Stronger Partnerships: Collaborating with Denbies, Merrist Wood, and the Hogs Back Brewery.

🌟 Operational Growth: Expanding team capacity and improving communications and events.

🌟 Sustainability Leadership: Rolling out tailored B Corp support and ESG packages.

🌟 New member Referral Scheme: exciting new initiative designed to grow and strengthen our network.

 

A Heartfelt Thank you to Simon Whalley:

On behalf of the Board of Directors, all the team, and our members, we’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to Simon Whalley, as he steps down from his post as Chair of Surrey Hills Enterprises.

His unwavering support, boundless enthusiasm, and remarkable dedication have been the cornerstone of Surrey Hills Enterprises since he founded it in 2012. Simon’s vision and steadfast commitment to supporting businesses in the Surrey Hills have made a lasting impact, creating a thriving community we are all so proud to be part of.

Welcoming our new Chair:

We are delighted to welcome Michael Coughlin to success Simon as Chair, from January. With over 20 years of senior experience across local government, the charitable sector, and private industry, Michael brings a wealth of expertise in leadership development, transformation, and culture change. As a Director at SHE for the past two years, Michael has demonstrated his passion for driving impactful initiatives. His strategic approach and background in fostering partnerships will help guide Surrey Hills Enterprises into an exciting new phase of growth and innovation.

Here’s to celebrating the past and embracing an even brighter future together!