A rare open day for local businesswomen is being held in Coventry next month, with a former contestant of BBC’s The Apprentice set to be the star turn.

Great British Life: Jo CameronJo Cameron (Image: 2011 @www.paulcwynn.com)

Coventry-born Jo Cameron, who shot to fame in series two of the hit TV show, will host the free event at Coombe Abbey Hotel on Wednesday March 5 at 9:30am.

The open day, which is taking place to inspire the area’s businesswomen and give them a platform to network and share their expertise, is part of Ms Cameron’s successful Achievers Academy for Women – a nationally-recognised initiative which now boasts 16 ‘leadership circles’ across the UK.

The Coombe Abbey event will be co-hosted by local businesswoman Caroline Suggett, founder of Warwickshire business development firm, ROM Consultancy. Ms Suggett, a respected business management consultant and executive coach, heads Ms Cameron’s leadership circle in Coventry.

Jo Cameron said: “Coventry and the surrounding area have a huge amount of talented businesswomen who want to grow their own businesses and develop their skills.

“Many of them are already part of our leadership circle in the city and some even believe that being part of the academy has changed their life.

“That is because, through the group, they can have sophisticated conversations with established businesswomen. In many ways it is almost like having their own ‘mini board’, and it is people like Caroline who are attracting businesswomen in the area to be part of it.

“With that in mind, the free open day at Coombe Abbey Hotel next month will give plenty of opportunities and inspiration for businesswomen across Coventry.

“Alongside Caroline, I’ll be giving an insight on my experiences and also lending some practical business advice too. It promises to be an amazing event in a wonderful setting.”

Ms Cameron, 43, has carved out a successful career as a businesswoman and media commentator in the eight years since she became a household name as a result of the BBC show.

Her Achievers Academy is part of her campaign to find 100 inspirational female business leaders across the UK.

Her academy has grown to include an annual awards scheme, member development days, specialist online forums and access to business growth courses. Ms Cameron also hosts regular online ‘business drop in’ sessions for members.

Caroline Suggett added: “The Coombe Abbey event is such a rare opportunity for women across Coventry and Warwickshire to get access to first-class business advice, personal development and encouragement.

“Jo’s Achievers Academy is all about inspiring women and giving them access to a network of like-minded, experienced business people. It has made such an impact on me and my business – so much so that I wanted to lead a group after attending only one meeting.

“The free open day will underline the benefits that hundreds of women across the country are seeing. Having Jo speaking at the event will be a big plus too – her drive and enthusiasm are second to none.”

Jo Cameron will be joined by Lynnette Kelly, local Labour councillor and parliamentary candidate. Lynnette said: “I am delighted to be invited along as a special guest to the event. It’s a great opportunity for women to network, but also to learn from each other’s experiences and share information that will help their businesses and their careers. It’s a real opportunity for aspiring and inspiring women in the region.”

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Those interested in attending the free event can email hello@achieversacademyforwomen.com or telephone 0843 289 2839 to book a place.