Turning the corner into a new year of opportunity

December 2021

Russell Bedford International has released CEO, Stephen Hamlet’s end of year message, saying goodbye to 2021 and welcoming the many opportunities to come in 2022.

In his message, Stephen Hamlet talks about the tremendous support that Russell Bedford member firms have provided to businesses around the globe and acknowledged the network’s achievements in what was an incredibly productive year, saying:

“We continued with our online content and regular webinars, supporting the personal and professional development of the people of our firms around the world. I am particularly proud of our Health & Wellbeing monthly webinars and online content, assisting our people in more than 100 countries.”

2021 was a major year for Russell Bedford, as the network carried out a strategic review while consulting, reflecting, and examining why the network exists, how to pursue its vision and confirming the core values that make up Russell Bedford’s DNA.

Speaking about growth, Stephen said: “We continued to recruit well this year, expanding the network with 12 new firms (and more to come before the year is out). And notable growth was seen amongst our existing member firms, proving how well they had coped during these challenging times, gaining even more work, by looking after businesses in need. From our AGM in 2020 to this year’s in 2021, we experienced an additional 18% growth.”

Stephen also acknowledged the network’s accomplishment in being, once again, nominated for ‘Network of the Year’ as one of just two finalists. 

On the return to in-person events at the end of 2021, Stephen said:

“What an amazing event we had for Marketing and Young Partners & Managers. Lisbon highlighted how special it was to be back with our people, to see physical togetherness and interaction. It was a fantastic occasion! I think I shall forever remember what one delegate said upon leaving: ‘In my annual appraisal, I shall no longer ask for a raise but just to be guaranteed a place at a Russell Bedford event’. I don’t believe accolades come any better than that!”

In his closing words, Stephen said: “As always, I thank you our members, my chair and board and my central office team for all the hard work, enthusiasm and dedication throughout these arduous times; keeping Russell Bedford not only alive, but vibrant, energetic, passionate and full of positivity. Russell Bedford… taking you further into 2022!”