Building Connections and Insights: Make UK Derby Defence Event
This month, we had the opportunity to attend the Make UK Defence event in Derby, an invaluable two-day gathering for learning about the defence sector and networking with industry professionals. Held at the Derby Football Club, the event provided a unique platform to explore opportunities and challenges within this dynamic industry.
Day one: navigating snow and making connections
The event coincided with an unexpected snowstorm, which made the journey an adventure in itself! Once settled, the day offered a mix of keynote speakers from across the defence sector and valuable networking sessions. These conversations provided a chance to engage with potential customers and learn more about their needs and expectations.
Day two: meet the buyer
The highlight of day two was the ‘Meet the Buyer’ event, where we had the chance to pitch to industry buyers. Sophie Hall, our Business Development Manager had requested eight meetings and was fortunate to secure four, although her first meeting didn’t go as planned due to a no-show. Despite that hiccup, the remaining three meetings were productive and offered valuable insights into what buyers in this sector are seeking.
Key takeaways from the event
The event was as much a learning experience as it was a networking opportunity. Here are the main insights Sophie took away from the two days:
- Quality is non-negotiable
Success in the defence sector depends on a relentless focus on quality. It’s not just about meeting standards, it’s about embedding quality as a core value within your business culture. - Qualifications open doors
Having the necessary certifications and qualifications is crucial. This sector requires adherence to strict regulations, and businesses must demonstrate their ability to meet these consistently. - Longevity is the reward
Once established in the defence industry, the potential for long-term, repeat business is significant. However, getting to that point requires patience, persistence, and a commitment to building trust with clients. - It takes time to establish credibility
Breaking into the defence sector isn’t quick or easy. Building the right connections, earning trust, and proving your capabilities can take years, but the rewards are worth the effort.
Looking ahead
Attending the Make UK Defence event was a valuable step in our journey to explore opportunities in this sector. It reinforced the importance of continuous improvement in quality and qualifications while highlighting the long-term potential for businesses that persevere.
We’re excited to take what we’ve learned and apply it to our processes, ensuring we’re well-positioned to meet the demands of this challenging and rewarding industry. Thank you to Make UK for hosting such a fantastic event – we’re looking forward to the next one!
