Member Spotlight Ian Harrison
Get to know Greater Birmingham member, Ian Harrison – Director at Growhouse Growth Business Ltd.
Name:
Ian Harrison
Position/company:
Director, Growhouse Growth Business Ltd
How would you describe your business to a total stranger?
We support senior leaders to create sustainable and productive workplace communities. We do that through leadership development, executive coaching, facilitation and working with our clients to create amazing employee experience.
Your previous roles:
I spent the first 20 years of my career as a minister in a number of independent evangelical churches in the West Midlands and Staffordshire. During that time I also worked as Head of pastoral studies in a small theological college and served on the board of a charity delivering training conferences in developing countries.
Other information (eg other positions held, charity roles):
I am currently on the People and Skills Leadership Board for the Centre for the New Midlands.
What do you do outside work? (hobbies/interests):
As a lifelong fan of Blackburn Rovers I get myself back to Blackburn (where I grew up) for matches as often as I can.
How long have you been an IoD member?
I’ve been a member of the IoD for just over a year.
Why did you join the IoD?
The primary reason for joining the IoD was to build connections with other directors. Another big attraction for me was the free access to places to work and meet with clients.
Which parts of IoD membership do you value most?
The opportunity to build connections with others working as Directors has been great.
How would you describe your branch area to a total stranger?
The Birmingham branch is a friendly and supportive group of people. The regular informal get togethers create a great opportunity to build relationships with people you might not meet elsewhere.
What is the most important issue for the government to tackle?
Political stability, the current impression is that all policy areas are adversely affected by the need to constantly pander to internal party factions. We need a sense of direction and a sense of a political leadership committed delivering what is best for the people.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years’ time?
In 10 years’ time I hope to be slowing down, maybe having sold the company.
LinkedIn profile:
