Hosted by the business loan provider, the two-course networking lunch took place at the Molineux Stadium.

The event featured guest speaker Michelle Mills-Porter, a human behaviour expert, author and award-winning entrepreneur.

On Boxing Day 2004, Michelle's life changed beyond recognition when she survived the Indian Ocean tsunami in Sri Lanka.

The extraordinary experience transformed her perspective and helped shape the work she is known for today.

Michelle took event attendees beneath the surface of human behaviour, exploring the forces that shape decisions, relationships, careers and businesses.

She stressed the importance of understanding the personal motivations of people and finding your own purpose.

Addressing business leaders, she said: “I think the most important thing we can do, if we want to retain our star performers, is understand what truly motivates our people.

By understanding what drives them, we can create an organisation that nobody wants to leave. Why do some organisations retain their people while others struggle to keep hold of their best people?

“Whatever drives you is what you should be doing, as that is going to keep you fulfilled, happy and mentally healthy.”

BCRS business loans chief executive Stephen Deakin said: “Our Black Country Diners Club lunch is one of our favourite annual events, and we were very pleased to have so many guests join us. Michelle brought a powerful and thought-provoking perspective to the room.

“At BCRS we are committed to supporting the West Midlands business community, and events such as this play an important role in raising awareness of the funding solutions we offer and helping business leaders explore opportunities for collaboration and growth.”

Louise Brookes from the Dudley Stroke Association, BCRS’s charity of the year, gave a moving presentation on the lifechanging work done by the charity to support people who have suffered a stroke. An event raffle in aid of the good cause raised £150 for the charity.