How nice to be asked to be 'guest contributor' to the revamped Parliament Speakers newsletter (and as a former magazine editor - in my pre-chocolate days - I know what goes into that...)

When I was spending 18 hours a day juggling Green & Black's and a writing career, I used to make myself leave the office and listen to what inspiring business leaders had to say. (Despite the 3,783 e-mails needing an answer, the stack of bills to pay, the looming deadlines...) It gave me a rare opportunity to forget the 'fire-fighting', and see my business through fresh eyes.

Which is why I now so very much enjoy being able to share the story of building Green & Black's into a global brand, in the hope of inspiring fellow entrepreneurs and the wider business community in the same way. By sharing some of the lessons I've learned along the way, I hope to make it easier for delegates to achieve their goals. I've come to realise that conferences, events and networking are crucial for helping to drive businesses forward, informing, inspiring - and allowing a fresh perspective, away from the day-to-day.

Having recently visited Parliament Speakers at their HQ, I was delighted to meet a professional team which is dedicated to putting together inspiring events of all kinds, for a wide range of clients. I hope, perhaps, to meet some of you through their work - but if not, I'm confident that whatever kind of speaker you're looking for, they have the contacts and resources to help.