On 20 January 2026, the Midlands will launch its first Vistage peer advisory board dedicated to small and scaling businesses.
The model is well established internationally and in the South East, but has until now been largely available only to larger organisations in the Midlands.
The board offers leaders of small and scaling firms a structured way to improve decision-making and strengthen their leadership.
Independent analysis by Dun & Bradstreet shows that companies whose leaders participate in Vistage peer advisory boards grow 2.2 times faster than comparable businesses.
The board’s founders say it is designed for leaders who value honest discussion, practical insight and the support of peers who understand the realities of running and growing a small business.
Members come from a wide range of sectors, helping to challenge assumptions, avoid groupthink and stress-test ideas from different perspectives.
Founding members, include leaders from finance, PR, the charity sector, retail, coaching and construction.
Members meet every other month for a full-day, confidential workshop combining structured peer discussion with practical guidance and insights from experienced speakers.
The board will be chaired by Alex Cook, whose background includes running a small business and leading strategy projects for executive teams at organisations such as Skyscanner, PureGym, Burger King UK and Hunter Boots.
Alex said: “I am delighted to be bringing this concept to the Midlands and supporting the growth of ambitious small and scaling businesses in the region.
“More than 45,000 leaders worldwide already participate in Vistage peer advisory boards.
“Being part of a trusted group of local peers creates space to think more clearly, challenge assumptions and make decisions with greater confidence.”
