Creative network Bristol Media has formally announced its creative talent retention initiative as it looks to help grow the region’s creative businesses.

The initiative will be launched by Karen Brady, vice-chairman of West Ham Football Club, who will deliver a keynote presentation at an event organised by Bristol Media to promote its Business, Leadership and Growth programme.

Bristol Media has identified a lack of leadership skills and formal management training as the main handicap for continued growth in the creative sector. The network now plans to use its' accreditation by Business Link to offer 'Train to Gain' funding of up to £1,000 to aid development of these skills within the industry.

The free-to-attend launch event, being held in @Bristol, will be followed by three half-day modules on the theme of leadership during March, April and May and later in the year by a major two-day creative industries conference.

Bristol Media also plans to hold a two-day conference in the city in Mid September aimed at Creative Businesses.

Brady, who began her career at Saatchi & Saatchi, commented: “In a sector where everyone, from the boss down, applies their creative talents it’s important not to overlook those other essentials – leadership and management. Bristol Media’s programme is designed to get entrepreneurs thinking how to develop their skills in those areas. That’s essential if our creative industries are to make the most of their talents.”

Further events will be held by Bristol Media through out the year, as it invites creative, design, advertising, TV and media talent to the city to present a series of workshops, seminars, talks and round table discussions.