On Wednesday 12 March 2008, the first collaborative event between Bolton Business School and the Chartered Management Institute took place at the University of Bolton. A CMI speaker, Mr John Potter of JP Global Consulting offered his thoughts on "Developing Persuasive Leadership" and how such abilities might make a real impact on the work place.

After a welcoming buffet, the audience made up of guests from local industry and commerce, current and ex-MBA students and University staff assembled in the Design Studio  to listen to John's thoughts on the subject. These were insightful and very well received. After his address John answered delegates' questions with clarity and candour.

This inaugural collaborative initiative with the CMI was well attended and it is hoped that other events can be organised in the future to reach out to Bolton's business community and build stronger relationships with the Business School.  Peter Moran of BBS, who helped organise the event said; "This has been a very successful event. It is pleasing that so many of our MBA alumni members came along and I would like to thank all those who assisted in organising the event and especially those who attended".