Mentor gets top award

Andy Hall Made in Manchester Awards 2017 with Sam Booth, of Pro-Manchester

AN Oldham business mentor received a top award recognising the best young talent across Greater Manchester.

Andy Hall, a mentoring development executive at Business Growth Hub, was named Mentor of the Year at the Made In Manchester awards, held at the Hilton Hotel.

The award was open to individuals who have shown support to the next generation of business professionals.

Mr Hall received the prize in tribute to his work over the past year in providing support and advice to junior colleagues to improve their confidence and ability.

He is pictured with Sam Booth, head of development at Pro-Manchester.

A former Fitton Hill School pupil, Andy Hall has over 15 years' experience of mentoring and coaching individuals and teams.

He has worked for major employers such as RBS, Direct Line and Swinton Insurance, along with over 200 small and medium-sized firms.

He has also run his own franchise business and has been involved in sales since starting his career.

He describes himself as being fascinated by the psychology of decision makers.

The Business Growth Hub is part of the Manchester Growth Company, which has links to local authorities.

Set up in 2011, its services are open to starts-ups along with established companies.

These activities include digital support, accessing finance and match-funding, efficiency services, and specialist support for textile and manufacturing businesses.

The hub helps businesses to find finance, investment and match-funding, prepare bids for support and introduces them to investors.