Business Group

The Nuffield Business Groups all met in 2022; the No 1 group in Notts courtesy of David and Jill Rose, the No 2 group met in Fife courtesy of Caroline and Ross Millar, and the newly formed No 3 group held its inaugural day courtesy of David and Sabrina Walston’s at the family farm in Cambs. All hosts went the extra mile welcoming scholars into living rooms, kitchens, and their busy lives.

The presentations, 54 in total, were as diverse as the scholars who gave them. Sitting through all of them I count myself lucky indeed to receive 54 moments of inspiration. An example of which were the government lockdowns, which members took in their stride, no whinging just action. Whether as providers of products/services to, or leaders of, the community; scholars flourished. In the meetings business conundrums were met with practical solutions and family dilemmas with understanding. Back in 2005 it’s fair to say the hope was we’d become each other’s quasi-non-execs. It has gone so far beyond that now. Friendship has formed, the friendship that allows for critical feedback as opposed to just ‘a slap on the’ back. And I’m pleased to report that members have even moved beyond meetings, with breakouts of members own volition, both inter and intra group. I think I’m getting old though. I was heading for bed as David and Jills woodland extravaganza was just getting warmed up. I was also heading for bed as the No 2 group were heading for the Hot tubs. God knows what the No 3 group will be like.

Matt Swain

David why bitter is better than cider