Hull’s unique entrepreneurial collective has a new chair.
Shipping and logistics leader Peter Aarosin takes over the helm of For Entrepreneurs Only from Andrew Horncastle MBE, who has served for more than a decade. He has led the organisation since its very early days, stepping away only briefly during his term as High Sheriff.
The organisation was recognised with a Queen’s Award in the year before the passing of Her Majesty, a crowning moment for the inspirational business leaders who united with the aim of helping all thrive.
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Mr Horncastle, who is the second generation chair of the eponymous East Yorkshire-based family property development firm, said: “I am pleased that our board has selected Peter, who is the right person to lead the organisation through the next phase.
“When I look at FEO as it is today, I pinch myself! The organisation has grown way beyond the original expectations of the founding members, brought together by David Kilburn.”
Launched in 2011, following a dinner hosted by the MKM co-founder, it has become a substantial organisation, with a chief executive heading programme delivery, and 200 members behind businesses employing 23,000 people and contributing £3.5 billion to the regional economy.
Mr Horncastle said: “In 2015, For Entrepreneurs Only formally began a five year plan, that we believed would help to grow a bigger local economy by offering support for local people to start, adapt and grow businesses, which in turn create more wealth and jobs in the area. Year on year, we bettered those objectives through unique peer-led business programmes and events, delivered by directors and members. Learning is through stories and swapping ideas on how to avoid expensive and time consuming mistakes.
“As chair I have many fond memories, but what an honour for FEO to receive The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2021 - the MBE equivalent for volunteer groups was dedicated to all members and key partners. The pandemic also highlighted the benefits of being part of FEO when new peer support networks formed.”
Diversity of membership has been another huge plus for Mr Horncastle. “Over the last couple of years, we started chairman’s visits to see the work being done on the ground. The range is nothing short of amazing - we’ve got a member in East Yorkshire (Heald) making anti-terror equipment which protects government buildings around the world, then a young-mum, Milly Rose, whose face painting business employs many other people around the city, and Sally Wray was a disillusioned civil servant, who saw an advert in the paper and bought a tool hire business.
“These are all excellent examples of the changes people can make in their lives with the right support. One simple piece of advice can have a massive impact - it’s extremely powerful. I’m proud to have been the Chair of FEO for all of this time, it’s been hugely rewarding and now is the time for succession.”
Mr Aarosin is a prominent Danish-born businessman who has made the Humber his home. He has been a member of FEO for four years, joining after serving as chair of bondholder organisation Marketing Humber. Last year he became part of the judging panel for Hull Live Business Awards. He said: “I feel very honoured to take over from Andrew. FEO has had an incredible impact on the local economy by supporting and encouraging entrepreneurs to create business opportunities and provide jobs. Particular focus is on supporting those essential growth businesses.
“FEO members work selflessly to support entrepreneurs in Hull and the surrounding area. It plays an important role at all levels, although I am inspired to see young people and budding entrepreneurs develop ideas through NxGen and Ignition, creating the employers of the future as well.
“Working with the Ignition team as a facilitator and meeting people with huge aspirations and new ideas for business has taught me so much. It doesn’t matter how many years of experience you may have, as an FEO member there is always something to take home; be it a lesson learned, an obstacle overcome or stoking the fire in your belly.
“With everything that is going on in the world right now, it is more important than ever for us to talk and exchange ideas and I am delighted to be a part of that conversation.”
The transition has been welcomed by chief executive Jan Brumby, She said: “Everyone at FEO would like to thank Andrew for the wonderful contribution he has made as chairman over the years. His commitment to the success of the local business community is second to none.
“We’re delighted that Peter Aarosin, as one of the area’s most respected entrepreneurs, has agreed to lead us through the next stage of our journey and look forward to helping more Entrepreneurs start, adapt and grow with Peter at the helm.”
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