Focus Dinner with Julian Leighton

Starting with a winding career path that included stints as a music promoter and meat trader, Julian Leighton’s journey took a definitive turn after six years at IBM.

After taking a year out to complete a MSc in Business Information Systems, he met business partner Mike Parker and together, they co-founded Orange Bus, a digital solutions agency named after Julian's beloved VW camper van.

From its humble beginnings, Orange Bus grew from a two-man start-up into a leading service and experience design agency, with a 150-strong workforce and offices in Newcastle, Sheffield, London and Edinburgh at the time of its sale in 2016.

And it’s been quite the journey. Along the way, Orange Bus scooped high-profile client wins such as the BBC, Direct Line Group alongside multiple clients in motorsport including Aston Martin Racing and Force India Formula 1. Orange Bus collected many notable accolades on the regional and national stage including a place in the Top 50 Fastest Growing Technology Companies and Large Digital Agency of the Year at the prestigious Northern Digital Awards.

Following Orange Bus’s acquisition by Capita in 2016, Julian served four years on the software division board before stepping down to team up again with Mike Parker, and two other senior colleagues, to develop a new venture focused on supporting and growing businesses in the agency sector.

Join us for an inspiring 'Orange Bus' journey with Julian, where you can gain valuable insights from his extensive experience in digital innovation and strategic growth and discover what it’s like to step away from a business you have poured your heart and soul into.

Why attend?

Inspiration and insights into Julian’s journey: Julian’s story is one of passion, resilience, and strategic brilliance. Hear how he transformed Orange Bus into a digital solutions powerhouse and learn about the challenges and successes that marked his entrepreneurial journey.

A discussion on life after acquisition: Learn about Julian’s post-acquisition journey, hear his perspective on working in the business after sale, and discover his latest venture aimed at supporting and growing businesses in the agency sector.

Build connections with your peers: This event is a unique chance to engage with fellow North East entrepreneurs, share experiences, and build meaningful connections. The insights and relationships you’ll gain over dinner will be invaluable for your business journey.

The Small Print

This event is exclusively for entrepreneurial members of the Forum and costs £90+VAT for a three-course meal, payable in advance.

By registering to attend this dinner you agree that your place is non-transferrable. We are unable to reimburse this cost if cancellations are received after 12noon on Tuesday 10th September 2024.