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2026 Founders' Lunch

Expect an intimate, fast-moving and energising experience packed with conversation, inspiration and opportunities to kickstart the new year!

Introducing our Founders’ Lunch, an exciting new edition to our 2026 events calendar. This isn’t a sit and listen affair – you'll rotate table three times, giving you the chance to hear from a diverse range of founders, dive into multiple conversations, swap insights and meet more of the people you didn’t know you needed to meet.

Replacing the Chairman’s Dinner of old, this dynamic new event takes place on Wednesday 28th January, 11.30am – 2.30pm in the Garden Room of the Biscuit Factory. It is a lunch like no other because here, a handful of the Forum’s founding, honorary, ambassador and award-winning members will each host a table, sharing one lesson they’ve learned that you should know heading into 2026. From scaling regional powerhouses to leading award-winning teams, these entrepreneurs have done it all – and now they’re opening up about what really drives success.


Wednesday 28th January 2026
The Biscuit Factory, 16 Stoddart Street, Newcastle, NE2 1AN
11.30am - 2.30pm
£60 + VAT (for entrepreneur members)


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Our Table Hosts

Sir Peter Vardy
Sir Peter Vardy
As co-founder of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum and one of the North East’s most influential business leaders, Sir Peter's life is one of philanthropy and faith, as well as a passionate commitment to driving enterprise and opportunity.
Brendon Hayward
Brendon Hayward
Engineer, entrepreneur and Forum Chair, Brendon Hayward has built businesses, shaped teams and driven community impact – his experience offers a rare view into leadership, culture and creating meaningful change.
Fiona Raglan
Fiona Raglan
Co-founder of the multi-award-winning Dipsticks Research, Fiona spent years shaping the Entrepreneurs’ Forum as a board member – her journey provides a masterclass in innovation, leadership and leaving a lasting legacy.
Brian Palmer OBE
Brian Palmer OBE
As the founder of Tharsus, board member of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum and Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering – Brian’s story is full of innovation, leadership and engineering excellence that continues to shape UK manufacturing.
Christine Nugent
Christine Nugent
Having built, led and sold multiple successful businesses, including what is now Hays Travel for Business, Christine's story is one of ambition, resilience and insight.
Lee Hartley
Lee Hartley
From start-up to national powerhouse, Lee, founder and CEO of Fairstone, has built a leading wealth management business which is the epitome of ambition, innovation and strategic growth.
Mark Squires
Mark Squires
Former CEO of Benfield Motors and a driving force behind one of the North East’s most successful family businesses, Mark’s story is one of legacy, leadership and navigating growth through change.
Steven Bell
Steven Bell
A founding member of the Forum, a serial entrepreneur and visionary business leader, Steven has built, grown and sold successful ventures across retail, hospitality and bespoke interiors, with a career defined by ambition, growth and lasting impact.
Caroline Theobald CBE
Caroline Theobald CBE
A champion of entrepreneurship, Caroline has spent over three decades mentoring business leaders and building networks, showing how connections and enterprise can drive real and lasting impact.


Menu

Lunch will be roast chicken breast with potato fondant, braised savoy cabbage and ham hock, followed by Tiramisu. If you have any dietary requirements please let one of the team know prior to Wednesday 21st January by emailing info@entrepreneursforum.net. 


Dress Code

There is no dress code for this event, just wear whatever you are comfortable in.

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