Join our Veterans in Business Networking Group
Whether you’re a veteran in business or you’re interested in meeting and hearing from local business leaders, this event is for you.
Join us in this relaxed session to hear from a panel of veteran entrepreneurs who are navigating the world of business since leaving the Armed Forces. Hosted by BIC business adviser Anthony McDermott, the panel will discuss their journey to business and how they’ve overcome challenges along the way.
The North East BIC’s Veterans in Business Networking events offer a dynamic platform for veterans to connect, share insights, and learn from each other’s experiences.
This group is an invaluable resource for sharing best practices and innovative ideas, gaining insights into overcoming business challenges and networking with fellow veteran entrepreneurs. You’ll meet like-minded individuals and discover new ways to grow and thrive in the business community.
The team from the BIC will also advise on how to access specialised support and resources tailored to veterans.
Meet the speakers
Anthony McDermott
Ger Fowler
Steven Armstrong
Tony Sullivan
Anthony McDermott - Host
As the BIC’s dedicated Veterans Ambassador, and Business Adviser, Anthony is leading on all initiatives and plans to build even greater support for our veteran’s community. Having set up his own successful business upon leaving the forces, he set about exploring how the BIC could develop a bespoke programme to help others use their vast skills and experience to become successful entrepreneurs.
Ger Fowler
Ger served in the Light Infantry and following several years of counselling, combined with the love, care and support of his family, Ger recovered from post-traumatic stress disorder. That experience has left him with a deep understanding of the needs of veterans and he knows just how important it is to have someone to help you get back on your feet. In 2013, Ger founded Veterans In Crisis, a social enterprise offering support for ex-service men, women and their families.
Steven Armstrong
Steven grew his business from a local operation to a national player over 21 years. When the time came to wrap up his involvement in the business in 2022, he chose to sell to a public limited company (PLC). Steven will share his experience of handing over to new owners the business he built from scratch. He’ll open up about the lessons he learned along the way and the crucial role his peer mentor played in preparing him for the process.
Tony Sullivan
A former RAF electrical engineer, Tony was among the first cohort to graduate from Veterans RV, a 12-week project run by the North East BIC to help veterans explore the idea of becoming their own boss. Fast-forward 6 months, and Tony is now running his own specialist cleaning company, harnessing his experience he gained in the medical and environmental decontamination industry since leaving the forces.
Get involved
Complete the booking form to register your place and we’ll be in touch to confirm your booking.