Riviera Connect Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Ellen Thieman of Tomlinson Solutions, and Charley Mann, Colette Dalton and construction student Amelia from South Devon College to talk honestly about apprenticeships, confidence and what it really takes to bridge the gap between education and employment.From personal setbacks to practical solutions, this conversation explores how young people can move from uncertainty to opportunity, and how employers can play a meaningful role in shaping the next generation of talent.Ellen ThiemanA multi channel marketing apprentice who shares her journey from her A Level results to building real skills in web design, social media and digital marketing.Charley MannA student already balancing education with work, offering insight into what employers value most and what young people learn once they step into the workplace.Amelia, StudentA construction student taking part in a new employability pilot programme, explaining why hands on learning suits her and what young people struggle with when trying to secure apprenticeships.Colette DaltonProgramme lead behind the new student talent and skills matching pilot, designed to improve apprenticeship readiness, retention and employer confidence.Why apprenticeships are not a second choiceThe confidence dip many students experience after schoolThe gap between classroom learning and workplace expectationsWhat employers say is missing in early career candidatesHow structured employability training can strengthen outcomesWhy mindset, communication and attitude matter just as much as technical skillWe close the episode with a focused roundtable conversation built around two key questions:What is the biggest gap between what young people think work will be like, and what employers actually expect on day one?If you could change one thing to make apprenticeships easier to access and more successful, what would it be and why?This section brings together student experience and employer insight, offering practical reflections for businesses, educators and young people alike.Apprenticeships only work when confidence, preparation and opportunity align. This episode shows what happens when students are supported properly and employers are invited into the process early.Whether you are a business owner, a parent, an educator or a young person exploring your next step, this episode offers clarity, encouragement and practical insight.LINKSEmail: [email protected] Futures Event4th March 2026All construction employers are invited to attend.South Devon College Apprenticeship Awardshttps://www.southdevon.ac.uk/event/south-devon-college-apprenticeship-awards-2026/Read about the Apprentice Takeover of the Torbay Business Forum Breakfast: https://www.southdevon.ac.uk/news/2026/02/10/apprentices-were-the-highlight-at-a-successful-torbay-business-forum-breakfast-at-south-devon-college/

For more than five decades, Jim Parker has helped shape how Torbay sees itself and how the rest of the country sees us too.As Editor of Torbay Weekly, former Editor of the Herald Express, and Chair of the Torbay Place Leadership Board, Jim has been at the centre of some of the Bay’s most important conversations. From helping secure millions in regeneration funding to championing a united voice in Westminster, his belief in the power of place has helped unlock real momentum.In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we explore how the Torbay Story became more than marketing and turned into a strategic tool for growth. Jim shares why telling the truth about both our natural beauty and our challenges is a strength. He explains why businesses must speak more confidently about their success and how community led investment is changing the way decisions are made across the Bay.We also reflect on pride in place, the importance of people in shaping progress, and what success for Torbay truly feels like in the years ahead.Jim leaves us with a simple but powerful message. Now is the time.If you care about leadership, investment, regeneration and the future of the English Riviera, this is an episode you will not want to miss.SHOW LINKSTorbay WeeklyTorbay Tomorrow MagazineThe Torbay StorySport TorbayBOOK YOUR STAND AT RIVIERA CONNECTDon't forget to book your stand at Riviera Connect, Wednesday 7th October 2026 at the Riviera International Centre.This podcast is brought to you by our sponsors, The Grand Torquay. 'Meet Me at The Grand' for informal catchups, meetings, networking and taking in all the beauty and opulence of this historic hotel in Torquay. Visit www.grandtorquay.co.uk

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we sit down with Chris Coward, Managing Director of Clear Sky Publishing Ltd, whose career spans more than forty years in UK and European media. From his early days in the mid eighties through senior posts at DMGT, Northcliffe, Local World, Trinity Mirror and Reach, Chris has been at the centre of newsroom change, large-scale integrations and the long transition from print to digital. He shares what he has learned about leading people through disruption, why regional media still matters, and how Clear Sky Publishing approaches local journalism with a renewed sense of service and identity. Chris also reflects on community responsibility, the lessons gained from a famously demanding commute, and the principles he would apply if he were building a brand new media product from the ground up.Links to Clear Sky Publishing online: TorbayTorbay Weekly:  ⁠⁠https://www.torbayweekly.co.uk⁠⁠Torbay Tomorrow: https://www.torbayweekly.co.uk/section/3286/torbay-tomorrowTorbay Lifestyle Magazine: (Coming Soon) DartmoorThe Moorlander Newspaper:  ⁠⁠ https://www.themoorlander.co.uk/Dartmoor Magazine: https://dartmoormagazine.co.uk/ ExeterExeter Today Newspaper: https://www.exetertoday.co.uk/Exeter Living Magazine: https://epaper.exeterlivingmag.co.uk/Exeter Tomorrow Magazine: https://www.exetertoday.co.uk/section/3125/exeter-tomorrowExeter Visitor Guide: https://edition.pagesuite.com/html5/reader/production/default.aspx North DevonNorth Devon Gazette: https://www.northdevongazette.co.uk/North Devon Tomorrow Magazine (Coming Soon)Upgrade your rail tickets with Seat Frog: https://seatfrog.com/Book onto the Christmas Social at Ibis Styles, for members of Torbay Business Forum, Torbay Business Network, Paignton and District Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurs Circle. Tickets are on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-christmas-networking-social-of-the-year-tickets-1662109396949Thank you for listening! Please leave a 5-star review, and subscribe for the next episode.

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we sit down with Steve Reynolds, Chair of the Torbay Business Forum and one of the most respected figures in the English Riviera’s business community. From his early career at Barclays to his current leadership roles across multiple organisations, Steve brings warmth, wisdom and unwavering commitment to everything he does.We explore how he balances chairing the Forum with his work in leadership consultancy, parish council service and education. Along the way, Steve shares what motivates him, the lessons he’s learned, and how he keeps so many plates spinning while always putting people first.If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with purpose, stay genuinely connected to your community, or grow a network that builds something bigger than business, this episode is for you.Take ActionDon’t miss the 2026 Riviera Connect Expo. It’s your chance to build new relationships, share your story, and be part of a future-facing business community. Visit ⁠riviera-connect.co.uk ⁠for dates and booking info.Want to get involved in the Torbay Business Forum? Come along to one of the monthly Business Breakfasts — and if it’s December, you might just spot Steve in festive costume.December Breakfast Booking Link: ⁠https://buytickets.at/torbaybusinessforum/1850341⁠Join the Torbay Business Forum mailing list: ⁠https://torbaybusinessforum.com/⁠Book on the Christmas Social event on 11th December: ⁠https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-christmas-networking-social-of-the-year-tickets-1662109396949⁠

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, weexplore what it really means for businesses and charities to lead with purpose, from building a mission-led organisation to strengthening community connections.Simon BeerSimon Beer, Managing Director of Bigwave Marketing, shareshow becoming a B Corporation has helped align growth with genuine social impact. He talks about Bigwave’s mission to make a difference to clients, colleagues and communities, and his long-term vision for a creative agency that leaves a lasting legacy in the South West.Rosey OakesRosey Oakes, Community and Corporate Fundraising Lead from TheMare and Foal Sanctuary brings a charity perspective, highlighting how equine-assisted learning and community engagement programmes can transform lives. With more than a decade in the charity sector, she explains howcollaboration between businesses and charities creates stronger, more resilient communities.Together, Simon and Rosey show how purpose-driven work,whether through communities, charity, or sustainability initiatives,  is helping to shape a more connected, compassionate Torbay.Chris ThomasChris Thomas, Vice-Chair of the Paignton and DistrictChamber of Commerce, rounds off the episode with an invitation to the Torbay Business Community Christmas Social at the Ibis Styles Paignton. He talks about the importance of community spirit and how uniting Torbay’s business networksbuilds momentum for the year ahead.Connect and take actionDiscover Bigwave Marketing’s purpose-led approach: bigwave.co.ukPartner with The Mare and Foal Sanctuary: mareandfoal.orgJoin the Torbay Business Community Christmas Social – book your ticket on Eventbrite

John Currie, Community Development and Fundraising Lead at YMCA South Devon, joins us to talk about the incredible range of services the charity provides for children, young people and families across the community. We discuss how local people can get involved in supporting their vital work, from education and wellbeing to youth development and housing. John highlights the charity’s Alternative Provision for young people struggling in mainstream school, the Nightstop project providing emergency accommodation, and their much-loved community programmes including Wriggles & Giggles, Buddy Base Wellbeing Group and the YMCA Nursery.YMCA South Devon is based on Dartmouth Rd, near the Paignton Leisure Centre and Velo Park. They offer essential support and education to young people and families across the region. Their services include early years education, youth wellbeing initiatives, family support and emergency accommodation, all delivered with compassion and a strong sense of community purpose.Visit ymcasouthdevon.org.uk to learn how your business can support or partner with YMCA South Devon.

Simon Steer, Commercial agent at Konsileo Insurance Torbay and Teignbridge, joins us to talk about building genuine relationships within the local business community. As proud sponsors of Riviera Connect, the Torbay Business Forum and The Riviera Connect Podcast, he shares how Konsileo focuses on listening to business owners, understanding their needs and delivering insurance solutions that are clear, practical and easy to manage. We discuss the importance of trust, the value of face-to-face networking and how personal service remains at the heart of everything they do.Konsileo is an award-winning insurance brokerage that brings a personal touch to business insurance. Working across Torbay and Teignbridge, the team provides tailored cover for companies of all sizes, ensuring peace of mind through expert advice and open communication. Their collaborative model allows agents like Simon to build long-term relationships with clients and offer a truly local service backed by national expertise.Visit konsileo.com to learn more about their personalised approach to business insurance.

Jason Parry, Multi-Site General Manager at The Fragrance Group, joins us to talk about managing two of Paignton’s most prominent hotels: The Mercure and Ibis Styles. Representing The Mercure at the Riviera Connect Expo, Jason shares how his team turned heads by bringing a full-sized hotel bed to their stand, a creative and memorable way to start conversations about their offers, facilities, and upcoming events. We also discuss how his hotels continue to play a key role in Torbay’s business community, hosting networking events and delivering innovative dining experiences that attract locals and visitors alike.The Fragrance Group operates two standout hotels on Paignton’s seafront: The Mercure and Ibis Styles. Both properties combine contemporary design with outstanding hospitality, offering stylish accommodation and event spaces that have become a hub for business, tourism and community gatherings across the English Riviera.Visit mercurepaignton.com or ibisstylespaignton.com to explore their offers, events, and hospitality experiences.

Jordan Bond, Senior Sales Manager at Team Factors, joins us to talk about how the company is helping businesses improve their cash flow and grow with confidence. As Gold Sponsors of the Torbay Business Forum, Team Factors are strong supporters of local enterprise and business development. Jordan shares how their fast and flexible funding solutions enable businesses to raise invoices and receive up to 90% of their value within 24 hours, and how their personal approach ensures every client receives tailored advice and dedicated support.More than just a finance provider, they act as an extension of their clients’ teams, offering personal service, expert guidance and dedicated relationship management. Based in the South West, Team Factors supports businesses across sectors, helping them make confident commercial decisions and achieve sustainable growth.Visit teamfactors.co.uk to discover how Team Factors can help your business unlock cash flow and achieve its goals.

Christopher Linton, Private Client Partner at Wollens, talks about the firm’s long-standing history in Torquay and its deep roots in the local community. As a Gold Sponsor of both the Riviera Connect Expo and the Torbay Business Forum, Wollens continues to champion business growth and collaboration across Devon. We discuss the company’s evolution, its founders and people, the story behind their striking new branding, and how Wollens has become known as the trusted “arm around your shoulder” when clients need guidance the most.Wollens is one of Devon’s leading law firms, with offices in South Devon, North Devon and Exeter. Their diverse and talented team of 150 professionals delivers a complete range of legal services, from agriculture to acquisitions, and marine law to marriage. Combining tradition with forward-thinking expertise, Wollens supports both private clients and businesses with care, clarity and integrity.Visit wollens.co.uk to learn more about their full spectrum of legal services and community initiatives.

Gareth Watton, Head of Business at Ocean BMW and MINI, joins us to talk about the dealership’s strong community presence across Torbay and their role as sponsors of both the Riviera Connect Expo and the Torbay Business Forum. We discuss the power of local networking, how partnerships are driving business growth, and their upcoming collaboration with The Mercure and Datel Electrical for an Electric Vehicle Test Drive Experience on Thursday, 6th November.Ocean BMW and MINI is a leading car dealership based in Paignton, offering a full range of new and approved used vehicles alongside expert servicing and customer care. The Ocean Group continues to champion innovation and sustainability through its growing electric vehicle offering and community partnerships across the English Riviera.Visit theoceangroup.co.uk to explore their range of BMW and MINI vehicles.

Richard Netherclift, Managing Director of Insignia Creative, discusses how his team is leading the AI revolution in Torbay. Joined by eBusiness Director Peter Blackler, Richard presented Shaping the Future of AI in Torbay, an open roundtable and the first-ever #TorbAI community meet-up at the Riviera Connect Expo. Together they explored how local businesses, organisations and individuals can collaborate to make AI practical, accessible and beneficial for everyone in the region.Based in Torquay, Insignia Creative delivers a complete multimedia marketing service. Website design is just one part of their offering, which also includes creative online and offline marketing solutions. Insignia helps businesses grow through strategic, data-driven creativity and innovation.Visit insigniacreative.co.uk to learn more about their creative marketing and AI initiatives.

Sam Webber, Founder of That Crafty Stitch, joins us to share her journey from launching an online craft brand in 2020 to building an award-winning retail shop on Torquay’s high street. We talk about the creativity and community behind her success, the rise of mindful crafting, and her upcoming talk at the Riviera Connect Expo on creating authentic founder content. Sam also reveals details of her new fisherman-core advent calendar, featuring hundreds of unique jumper pattern combinations.That Crafty Stitch is both an e-commerce brand and a local craft shop in Torquay, offering yarn, knitting and crochet kits designed to make crafting accessible to everyone. Founded by Sam Webber, the business promotes creativity, mindfulness, and the joy of making, helping beginners find confidence and inspiration through beautifully curated kits and tutorials.Visit thatcraftystitch.co.uk to explore kits, tutorials, and Sam’s new advent calendar.

Michael Bailey, Owner of MD Elite Cleaning Services, talks about the company’s growth in Torbay, Birmingham and London, and how their team delivers top-quality domestic and commercial cleaning services. We discuss their commitment to reliability and customer care, the addition of the MD Launderette, and how the business continues to build its reputation across multiple regions.MD Elite Cleaning Services provides professional cleaning solutions for homes and businesses across Torbay, Birmingham and London. With a large and dedicated team, the company offers everything from deep cleans to laundry services, maintaining high standards and exceptional service delivery.Visit mdelitecleaningservices.co.uk to learn more about their services and locations.

Troy Wheeler, Group Managing Director at Tomlinson Solutions, shares how the company has achieved record growth, earned multiple award nominations and built a reputation for world-class IT services in Torbay. We discuss their role within the Torbay Hi-Tech Cluster, how they’re driving digital transformation across the region, and what success at the Riviera Connect Expo means for their team and clients.Tomlinson Solutions provides specialist business support, Office 365 management, cyber security, cloud services, web design and SEO. Based in Torbay, the company is part of the region’s growing tech ecosystem, supporting businesses through reliable and forward-thinking IT solutions.Visit tomlinsonsolutions.co.uk to learn more about their services and growth.

In this episode, we speak with Andrew Clancy, founder and Managing Director of Coreus Group. Coreus is a growing consultancy working across the built environment sector. It is known for strong technical delivery and an even stronger focus on its people. Under Andrew’s leadership, Coreus has grown from a startup into a national business with a reputation for doing things differently. Coreus is a 2-time winner of The Sunday Times Best Place to Work in 2024 (Small Business) and 2025 (Medium Business).Andrew talks openly about what it takes to build a strong company culture, how to lead during periods of fast growth, and why giving back is part of his business strategy. He also shares how the Coreus Foundation was formed and what it means to turn profit into positive community impact.We cover:The early days of Coreus and how its culture was builtHiring the right people and protecting team valuesWhat the Best Place to Work recognition means to him and tothe teamThe difficult lessons learned from challenges along the wayHis views on leadership, reputation, and long-term ambition. This is a practical and honest conversation about growing abusiness with purpose, treating people well, and staying true to your principles as you scale.Thank you to Andrew for being our keynote speaker at theTorbay Business Breakfast at the Riviera Connect Expo. A truly inspiring speaker that set the tone for the entire day.Visit Coreus Group: https://coreusgroup.com/Visit Coreus Foundation: https://coreusfoundation.com/

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast we welcome Michael Westcott and Mark Bowes-Cavanagh, co-chairs of Torquay United Football Club to talk about the club’s remarkable renewal. After navigating one of the most challenging chapters in its history Torquay United is now firmly focused on its future on and off the pitch.Michael and Mark share their vision for a financially sustainable club with the community at its heart. They discuss the journey from administration to stability their relationship with the club’s Trust and how they are balancing ambition with sustainability. We celebrate record season ticket sales, the innovative use of the Plainmoor stadium and new partnership opportunities for local businesses. Plus they take on our light hearted game Match Day or Rain Delay for a fun insight into life behind the scenes at the Gulls.Learn more about Torquay United Football Club and check out their new website coming soon: www.torquayunited.comSee upcoming fixtures and events www.torquayunited.com/fixturesTo enquire about partnerships and sponsorship opportunities, contact Commercial Manager Sharon Musker on 07949 005832 or [email protected] and subscribe for more insights from Torbay's business community. Don't forget to book your stand at the Riviera Connect Expo. Visit https://riviera-connect.co.uk/Thanks for listening!

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we are joined by Tarah Gear, Director of Brand and Place Futures, and Martin Tresidder, Development Director at Milligan. Milligan has been appointed as a development partner to work alongside Torbay Council and Willmott Dixon to help deliver long-term regeneration across the Bay.Tarah and Martin share how Milligan approaches placemaking and development with a strong focus on community involvement, local identity and the natural rhythm of each town. They reflect on the importance of creating neighbourhoods with the right balance of homes, commercial spaces and adaptable hospitality. From The Torbay Story to the transformation of Union Square and the Strand, they explain how each site fits into a wider vision for Torbay’s future.What We Cover• Placemaking as a process of revealing local character• Building resilient commercial and leisure space• Vision-led development shaped by The Torbay Story• Projects like Union Square and the Strand as signals of long-term confidencePublic Consultation EventsMilligan is inviting local residents and businesses to take part in their upcoming consultation event:📅 Monday 22 July📍 Former Shoe Zone unit in TorquayDrop in to view the proposals, speak with the team and share your views on the future of the town. View the plans online:The Strand on Torbay.gov.ukUnion Square on Torbay.gov.uk🎧 Listen and SubscribeFind this episode and more at riviera-connect.co.uk

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we speak with John Baker, Chief Executive of Newton Abbot Racecourse, whose lifelong love for horse racing began with Red Rum’s legendary Grand National win. From his career beginnings in journalism to leading Aintree Racecourse and now guiding one of Britain’s oldest independent courses, John shares a powerful vision for the future of Newton Abbot, aiming to make it the best racecourse, pound for pound, in the UK.We explore how the racecourse is evolving to meet modern expectations, welcoming new audiences, and strengthening ties with the Torbay community as it approaches its 160th anniversary.What We Cover:We talk with John Baker about what it takes to create a standout visitor experience at Newton Abbot Racecourse, from themed events and local engagement to celebrating 160 years of history. John shares his thoughts on leadership, legacy, and the future of business in Torbay. Plus, we throw in a Grand National challenge and a fun quick-fire game of Race Day or Rain Delay. Join the Business Club at Newton Abbot Racecourse:Choose from membership packages that include sponsorships, tickets, discounts, and more! Email Jenny Paton, [email protected] for more details. Guest Bio:John Baker is Chief Executive of Newton Abbot Racecourse and former Managing Director of Aintree Racecourse. With a 30-year career spanning journalism, sport and venue leadership, John is a respected figure in UK racing. His work now focuses on delivering outstanding visitor experiences and keeping Newton Abbot at the heart of regional culture, heritage and entertainment.Special Segment:We close the episode with a few words from Alison Upton, Philanthropy and Engagement Manager at RowcroftHospice, highlighting the essential work they do in our region and how businesses can support their mission with their new Accumulator Challenge. Email Lisa Whittaker to see how your business can get started! [email protected] or call 01803 217628Resources and Links:🏇Explore Newton AbbotRacecourse🎧More episodes: RivieraConnect Podcast💛Support RowcroftHospice

Redefining Connection with John Harvey, Founder of The Samphire ClubIn this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we’re joined by John Harvey, founder of The Samphire Club and a trusted connector in the South West business scene. Known for curating meaningful business relationships grounded in trust and generosity, John shares his thoughts on leadership, slow networking, and the art of building real human connection in a digital world.We also explore his approach to making the most of events like Riviera Connect, how to follow up meaningfully, and what it takes to turn occasional attendees into loyal community members.Plus – a special segment with Devon Air Ambulance Trust:Before we close, we hand over to Jo Rigby, Head of Fundraising, and Lottie from Devon Air Ambulance Trust. Lottie shares exciting news about two upcoming fundraising events:Devon HeliHike on 5th July – a scenic 14 or 26-mile challengeInflatable Race Day on 9th August – a wildly fun event with routes from 2.5 miles to 15kmWe discuss how local businesses, participants and volunteers can get involved and support the incredible life-saving work of the charity across our region.What We Cover:The origin and ethos of The Samphire ClubWhat genuine, generous networking looks like in 2024John’s advice on building real community and follow-through at large eventsA case study on shifting event culture from transactional to transformationalCareer reflections, personal growth, and what success means nowA fun three-word game exploring Torbay, networking, and Riviera ConnectThe future of business in the South WestHow to get involved with Devon Air Ambulance’s upcoming eventsJohn Harvey is an author and the founder of The Samphire Club, a values-led business community built on trust, conversation and connection.Jo Rigby is Head of Fundraising at Devon Air Ambulance Trust, with a mission to connect communities with the life-saving work of this essential regional charity.Resources and Links:👉 Discover The Samphire Club👉 Learn more about Riviera Connect Expo 2025👉 Get involved with Devon Air Ambulance

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we sit down with Jon-Paul Hedge, Interim Place Manager at Torbay Council and strategic lead behind the Torbay Story. From his roots in local journalism to his leadership roles in culture and communications, Jon-Paul brings a fresh perspective on how storytelling, civic pride and community engagement are helping shape Torbay’s future. We talk place-making, identity, leadership and the power of a 2,700-strong Champions Network.What We Cover:How Jon-Paul’s career journey informs his place-based leadershipThe evolution of the Torbay Story as a tool for economic and cultural transformationThe role of the Torbay Place Leadership BoardHow local businesses and communities can engage and thriveInsights from the 3,000-strong Champions Network“Coastal Compass”: A fun game exploring meaning across the regionA real-life scenario: connecting small businesses to the bigger pictureJon-Paul’s lasting leadership advice and outlook on Torbay’s futureAbout Jon-Paul HedgeJon-Paul Hedge is Interim Place Manager at Torbay Council, helping lead the Torbay Story and championing the region's narrative locally and nationally. With a background spanning journalism, cultural programming and strategic communications, JP is passionate about helping people see their place with pride, purpose and potential.Resources and Links:👉 Learn more about the Torbay Story👉 Download the Torbay Story Digital Toolkit👉 Join the Torbay Champions Network

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we sit down with Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, and a leading figure in the transformation of Torbay’s tourism economy. Carolyn shares her leadership journey, the strategic vision behind year-round tourism, and the innovations driving the English Riviera’s £500 million visitor economy. We discuss the impact of strategic partnerships, the future of tourism marketing, and what it takes to build resilience in the face of major challenges.What We Cover:Leadership lessons from navigating industry challengesThe future of the Devon & Partners LVEP collaborationHow tourism marketing must evolve to stay competitiveUnlocking opportunities for year-round tourism in TorbayCarolyn’s personal leadership principles for successThe English Riviera lightning round: local hidden gems and personal favouritesFuture opportunities and challenges for Torbay’s business communityAbout Carolyn Custerson:Carolyn is the Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, leading destination marketing strategies that deliver a £75:£1 return on investment. A champion for sustainable tourism growth and strategic collaboration, she is shaping the future of The English Riviera as a vibrant, year-round destination.Learn More:Explore our incredible attractions, events and business opportunities at www.englishriviera.co.ukGet involved in the Southwest Visitor Economy Hub: https://swvehub.co.uk/Read the Torbay Council Destination Management Plan here: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/council/policies/economic-regeneration/dmp/Learn more about SUPHub here: https://suphub.co.uk/ and download the digital toolkit.

The Riviera Connect Podcast is a series of interviews with business leaders from across the English Riviera, running throughout the year in the lead-up to the Riviera Connect Expo on Thursday 16 October 2025. We explore the stories, insights and ambitions shaping business, tourism and hospitality in our region. Presented in collaboration with the English Riviera BID Company and the Torbay Business Forum, this podcast showcases the people and ideas driving growth, innovation and success across Torbay and beyond. To book your expo booth or get yourself a ticket to attend, please visit https://riviera-connect.co.uk/Sponsored by Konsileo Insurance and Treat Marketing.