Simon Laing Email & Phone Number

Whitley Bay, Gb

Northumberland, England, United Kingdom

The Rural Design Centre supports rural communities in solving problems with design thinking and innovation. As their Rural Start-up Advisor I work with new entrepreneurs to help them establish their businesses across the huge county of Northumberland and the rural parts of Gateshead too. Rural businesses face unique problems, but also enjoy unique opportunities too.My preferred method of delivery is 1-2-1 mentoring, as it’s the conversations around the kitchen table that spark those… Show more The Rural Design Centre supports rural communities in solving problems with design thinking and innovation. As their Rural Start-up Advisor I work with new entrepreneurs to help them establish their businesses across the huge county of Northumberland and the rural parts of Gateshead too. Rural businesses face unique problems, but also enjoy unique opportunities too.My preferred method of delivery is 1-2-1 mentoring, as it’s the conversations around the kitchen table that spark those great ideas. I strive to provide a relational service, walking alongside my clients as they step into the world of business.My time is fully funded by the UK Government via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, so it’s fantastic to be providing a service that is free at the point of use. Show less

Whitley Bay, England, United Kingdom

Consultancy that helps tourism businesses and destinations design and develop new visitor experiences that captivate. In 2024 I am working with Newcastle Business Improvement District (NE1) to develop new activities on the River Tyne, animating the waterway and perhaps one day turning it into the Venice of the north? I am also working with Destination North East to develop new tourism experiences that capture the spirit and culture of North East England. As a geordie native, I could not… Show more Consultancy that helps tourism businesses and destinations design and develop new visitor experiences that captivate. In 2024 I am working with Newcastle Business Improvement District (NE1) to develop new activities on the River Tyne, animating the waterway and perhaps one day turning it into the Venice of the north? I am also working with Destination North East to develop new tourism experiences that capture the spirit and culture of North East England. As a geordie native, I could not be happier to do this!Most recently I have been working with Destination Tweed on product/service development to support the River Tweed Trail launching in 2027. As a long-term visitor to the area, I can't wait to help people get active and explore this real hidden gem in the borders.If you are interested in developing a new product, service or experience that appeals to tourists, reach out as I would love to work with you. Show less

Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom

Founded as a lifestyle business in 2014 and ultimately grew to welcoming over 10,000 clients per annum. Multiple award wins at NE Tourism Awards and North Tyneside Business Awards including gold for experience of the year and silver for small attraction of the year.We always tried to do things right. Under my leadership we became a 1% for the planet member, donating thousands to local causes aimed at bettering our local communities and waterways. We also became a Living Wage Foundation… Show more Founded as a lifestyle business in 2014 and ultimately grew to welcoming over 10,000 clients per annum. Multiple award wins at NE Tourism Awards and North Tyneside Business Awards including gold for experience of the year and silver for small attraction of the year.We always tried to do things right. Under my leadership we became a 1% for the planet member, donating thousands to local causes aimed at bettering our local communities and waterways. We also became a Living Wage Foundation employer and banned zero hours contracts, except where requested by the employee.An unforgettable decade of my life, growing a business that will always be close to my heart. A huge thank you to all of the other businesses that partnered with us over the years to design and deliver some truly innovative outdoor experiences in NE England and beyond. Show less

Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom

Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom

Marine Mammal Research Project

Vancouver, Canada Area

Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom

Master Of Science (Msc), Environmental Science, Distinction

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Marine Biology And Biological Oceanography, 2:1