Lord Jones talks business

Lord Jones delivered a speech entitled “Doing it in a different way” at the event at the end of last month, which was hosted by Innovation 1st, a University project part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

The project offers a minimum of 12 hours’ free advice, guidance and support to companies in the West Midlands around the use of innovative technology for their business.

Lord Jones, who has a prominent role in British industry as Chairman of Triumph Motorcycles Ltd as well as being the Corporate Ambassador for Jaguar Cars and JCB, toured the Visualisation Centre and was given a demonstration of its video conferencing capabilities, the 3.5m x 2.5m Windows 8 touchscreen and smart near-field communication (NFC) capabilities.

He also saw how 3D printing technology is becoming more user-friendly and accessible.

Lord Jones gave a passionate speech about the need for innovation in the business world, now more than ever, and reflected that the UK is justly famous for its inventors.

His speech focussed on a number of areas including private and public sector working and how he sees a need to approach things differently. The speech was filmed and streamed live for those who could not attend in person.

Professor Ian Oakes, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and External Engagement, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Lord Jones to the University and show him what we can offer to businesses.

“We not only provide a range of technology services to companies but also venue, office space and facilities hire. This was a great opportunity to showcase all these in one day to visiting organisations from across the West Midlands.”

Lord Jones also signed copies of his book, Fixing Britain, with all proceeds going to one of his sponsored charities, Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer. Arun Singh, a Wolverhampton graduate now working for the Project Support Office, also raised £1,500 for the charity by having his head shaved.

You can view Lord Jones’ speech online on YouTube, search for “Digby doing it differently’:www.youtube.com

ENDS

For more information please contact James Allen in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322003

Date Issued: Tuesday March 25 2014