Background

I host my clients at events around the city, introducing them to key organisations and helping them to meet influencers and decision makers.

Having made the initial introduction, I help my clients build on the connections, developing new relationships, partnerships or collaborations. I act as their eyes and ears as i'm out and about the city, keeping on top of local economic, political and social issues whilst identifying new opportunities for their organisation.

Setting up events ranging from private working breakfasts to VIP dinners, I use my extensive contacts and knowledge of the city to help to shape a unique guest list.

My personal approach, combined with a track record of business development and project management skills means that I am constantly opening new doors for my clients, giving them access to valuable new business opportunities. I'm mindful however that every relationship has to be mutually beneficial to work, so I never set up a meeting I don't think will be valuable to my existing contacts.

I formed Weave Marketing in 2004 having spent 14 years at Birmingham Forward where I gained an invaluable network of contacts that I continue to develop.

I think it's important to give something back to the city so i'm committed to, and passionate about, my roles as a Board director of Writing West Midlands, Birmingham Civic Society Trustee and Advisory Group member of Birmingham Common Purpose.

Testimonials

Lorraine has proven herself as an essential asset to our business. It is easy to say that she knows everyone and knows everything that's happening - but it does seem to be true. Lorraine's very genuine enthusiasm for the people, businesses and life of this region is infectious. Lorraine is invaluable for her sound judgement and unerringly good advice, and just her ability to make great things happen.

Fiona Toye,
Managing Director,
Toye, Kenning & Spencer Ltd

Lorraine Francis has worked with Newman University College over a number of years on high profile events, including a series of three very successful evening dinner events which brought together senior figures in the public, private and third sectors. Lorraine is always a pleasure to work with and has given excellent support in identifying speakers and liaising with guests. She is totally reliable and provides enthusiastic energy to every task she undertakes.

Professor Peter Rolf Lutzeier,
Principal & Chief Executive,
Newman University College, Birmingham

Lorraine supported development of our "Become Richer Work for Nothing" campaign aimed at encouraging leaders in the business community to give their time to support local charities. She guided us in taking the temperature of the corporate sector in Birmingham to determine what level of support is likely to exist for volunteering and trusteeships which has proved very useful. In addition to giving us a heads-up on new opportunities and current issues affecting the city, Lorraine was responsible for introducing us to the Thrive initiative in which we are now actively involved".

Tracey O'Brien,
Director, Policy and Programmes,
BVSC, The Centre for Voluntary Action

I've worked with Lorraine on quite a few different projects and events and really value her knowledge and expertise. Her enthusiasm is infectious and I can always rely on Lorraine to help me plan and organise an event or project, not to mention her ability to inspire. I'd recommend Lorraine at the drop of a hat.

Karl Binder
Managing Director
Adhere

Lorraine Francis has provided invaluable assistance with the marketing and development of Bass Clusker Consulting. In addition to her unique knowledge and understanding of the professional sector in Birmingham, we have greatly valued, and continue to value, her enthusiasm and support for the growth of our business.

Dr Andrew bass
Director
Bass Clusker Consulting

The work we’ve done with Lorraine has been incredibly productive and in just a few months we have made huge progress.  Who would have thought back when we started that we would be so well connected with potential Birmingham mayors and local MPs and that our profile and reputation would have developed so significantly.  Thank you for this. 

Noel Dunne
Director
Creative Alliance

Lorraine's role at Creative Republic included working with board members on strategy and direction whilst developing and implementing plans to launch the organisation which included recruiting supporters, running an events programme and creating a potential membership offer. Lorraine's background and many years of experience enabled her to work easily with partners across the public, private and voluntary sectors. The organisation was able to benefit from access to her extensive contacts. Her network of key players helped identify and secure speakers, venues and sponsors - an invaluable skill for an event organiser.

Lorraine has an ability to bring people together and make things happen, a particularly useful skill when working alongside volunteers and those in non executive roles. She was able to identify and plan for (or head off) potential problems before they arose. Lorraine is used to working on tight budgets with limited resources. She has an attention to detail combined with a practical, hands on approach that ensure Lorraine is effective, user-friendly and easy to work with.

Helga Henry
Chair,
West Midlands Creative Republic

Contact

Lorraine Francis

Weave Marketing
35 St Paul's Square
Birmingham
B3 1QX

t: 0121 232 4650
m: 07778 739772
e: lorraine@weavemarketing.co.uk
w: www.weavemarketing.co.uk
Lorraine Francis

I’m Lorraine Francis and I forge strategic connections for businesses, creative leaders and third sector organisations across the city of Birmingham.