In 2023, we achieved our Level One Green Mark certification. This in and of itself was a major accomplishment for our small business and required a persistent collaborative effort from everyone in our office.
Green Mark Level Two required even more from us. Covering our approach to procurement and tracking our travel impact were just two of the standout requirements needed to progress.
ESG remains important to us and to our customers moving into 2025, and our commitment remains consistent - I’m very proud of this one, as it shows how even small businesses can do their bit towards a greener future.
June: Webinar
2024 saw another webinar featuring Forrester Research where I had the privilege of working once again with Jeffrey Rajamani as our Expert Guest Analyst.
The webinar, titled ‘How to Build a Comprehensive Supplier Data Governance Strategy: Tips From an Expert Analyst’ touched upon all things data governance, including why it’s important to have a strategy surrounding data governance, and how to enhance data quality to mitigate risk.
It’s available now for a limited time only to watch on demand, so if you’re interested, check it out.
June: Tees Tech Awards
For the second year in a row we were shortlisted for Company of the Year at the Tees Tech Awards – as well as the Digital Innovation Award for the very first time.
It was an honour, looking back, to be recognised among our peers as an example of a successful, impactful business based in Teesside.
While we didn’t come away with any of the top prizes this time around, the nomination and awards ceremony itself gave me assurance that our area is full of exciting, inspirational businesses and business leaders, and there is more yet to see.
July: eSourcing Update Videos
A customer-exclusive and brand new to 2024, the launch of our eSourcing Update Videos has been an interesting look into different aspects of our sourcing activities over each quarter.
Under careful supervision from our eSourcing consultants collating and providing the insights into our customers’ sourcing habits, each video has offered unique insights.
July: Acquisition by Everfield
While I’m not picking favourites, this one might have been the most important development of 2024.
We were acquired by Everfield this summer, who aspire to foster ambition, fuel growth, and unlock opportunities for Europe’s software ecosystem.
As I remain with the business as CEO, it is exciting to think what the support and investment from Everfield will do for Trade Interchange as we strive to continue our growth trajectory into the new year and beyond.
September: User Group
Our 2024 User Group was held once again in London on the 19th of September, and we were fortunate to report record attendance – 21 companies registered!
Featuring Professor Andy Pardoe as keynote speaker, his presentation ‘The Future of Work in an AI World’ provoked thoughtful discussion around the transformative potential of AI.
Sodexo UK&I’s Bekki Peters joined Emma Wye-Williams for an interactive case study, detailing how the enduring partnership between our organisations has benefitted them.
2025?
As attention shifts towards the new year, and what new opportunities might lay there, I look back on 2024 with pride.
2025 will certainly have its ups and downs, but I feel ready for the challenge. 2024 has prepared me well.