Sphere Network | Enabling Digital Collaboration

focus on action

Addressing cross-sector challenges through the power of digital transformation and innovation

Inspiring action in digital innovation

Address your business challenges digitally and expand your Sphere of Influence

Our members aim to resolve problems through digital solutions and collaboration, regardless of their industry sector.

Sphere Network events enable you to share knowledge and access new networks and opportunities with influence across the North East of England and beyond.

You'll be invited to attend different types of event in locations across the region:

What's Bubbling - informal networking with a wide group, an opportunity for serendipitous meetings and new, unexpected collaboration opportunities

Round Table - throwing open industry challenges to find new problem-solving routes

Deep Dive - focusing on the contribution of a specific existing or emerging technology that can have an impact across multiple sectors.

Independent
No corporate agenda
Cross-Sector
Revealing hidden skills
Collaborative
Finding solutions together
Innovation
Embracing new technology

SPHERE NETWORK TEAM

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Kate Baucherel

Blockchain, Cryptocurrency, Diversity

A writer, speaker and digital business consultant, Kate works with enterprises using or developing emerging technologies. Kate has managed several digital businesses through startup and growth phases, and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.

Sue Ormerod

Future of Work, Digital Skills

Career IT Recruiter of 23 years, founder & Chair of the Nigel Wright IT Director forum (now in its 13th year). Has managed large IT recruitment projects during merger, acquisition, expansion, and scaling for growth. School Governor and advocate for STEM and encouraging girls into tech.

Marianne Whitfield

VR, AR, Data, Machine Learning

As a successful business owner, Marianne combines a passion for enterprise and entrepreneurship with a background in technology and systems design. As MD of Cobweb Information, she has overseen Cobweb’s growth into one of the leading publishers of small business information in the UK.

Charles Sellers

IoT, IIoT, Sensors, Ageing, Health

A track record in international business troubleshooting, Charles has spent the last decade working in innovation and technology and is the founder for both the IoTClusterNE and CyberSecurityClusterNE creating a centre of excellence for the region.

Justin Barlow

Digital Communications

Nearly 20 years’ experience of articulating and marketing IT and digital solutions from working both within the industry and alongside it, in helping businesses exploit commercial opportunities and minimise legal risks.

Alastair Irons

Cybersecurity

Alastair is Academic Dean for the Faculty of Computer Science and a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Sunderland, focusing on issues within computer forensics, digital forensics, digital investigation methods, and cyber security.

Alison Shaw

Future of Work, Education

The David Goldman Visiting Professor of Innovation and Enterprise at Newcastle University Business School, Alison works to create opportunities for young people so they can find skilled, engaging and well-paid work, contribute to growth in the region’s economy, and help build our prosperity.